According to Robert Hillburn’s book Johnny Cash: The Life, this Shy-Drager syndrome was also a misdiagnosis, and he had his diagnosis later changed to autonomic neuropathy associated with diabetes, which meant he could no longer tour.
Years later, on May 15, 2003, June died of complications during a heart-valve replacement surgery, aged 73.
In a statement made after her death, Johnny said: “The spirit of June Carter overshadows me tonight with the love she had for me and the love I have for her.
“We connect somewhere between here and Heaven. She came down for a short visit, I guess, from Heaven to visit with me tonight to give me courage and inspiration like she always has.
“She’s never been one for me except courage and inspiration. I thank God for June Carter. I love her with all my heart.”
