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A "much-loved mam" and carer from Newton Aycliffe died after collapsing in public from multiple organ failure, an inquest heard.
Emma Jane Peart, 51, from Newton Aycliffe, died at Darlington Memorial Hospital on June 16 after collapsing in public two days earlier.
An inquest into Ms Peart’s death was opened at Miners Hall in Durham on Monday (October 12).
Coroner's officer Laura Menzies told the short hearing: “I understand the circumstances to be that on June 14, Miss Peart was admitted to Darlington Memorial Hospital after having collapsed in public.”
She died two days later.
Toxicology analysis confirmed the presence of propranolol, which is believed to have contributed to her cause of death.
A post-mortem examination was carried out by Dr Nigel Cooper at Newcastle Freeman Hospital Mortuary on July 6 and gave the cause of death as multiple organ failure and toxic effects of pregabalin.
Emma was known locally for previously working at The Trenches Bistro, in Newton Aycliffe.
A funeral notice described her as: “A dearly loved daughter of Susan and stepdaughter of Steve.
“A much-loved mam of Luke. Emma was dearly loved and will be missed by all her family and friends.”
A fundraiser launched following her death raised £3,355 from 120 donations to help with the financial strain on her son and the cost of her funeral.
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The fundraiser, set up by her best friend Joanna Davies, said: “I’d like to help my best friend's 20-year-old son Luke pay for a beautiful service for Emma after losing her suddenly at the young age of 51.
“Luke is Emma’s next of kin therefore the financial strain is left to him and as you can imagine he would like the best for his mam and a celebration of life she deserves.”
Coroner Jeremy Chipperfield adjourned the inquest to Crook Coroners Court on December 3.