Dying together: Why a happily married couple decided to stop living
A Dutch couple, Jan and Els, married for nearly five decades, opted for duo-euthanasia due to Jan's chronic pain and Els's dementia. Their joint decision reflects the ethical complexities of euthanasia, emphasizing the rising trend of duo-euthanasia in the Netherlands.
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Jan and Els, a Dutch couple married for nearly five decades, chose to die together through duo-euthanasia. Jan, 70, suffered from chronic back pain, while Els, 71, had dementia. They had a shared love for water and boats throughout their life together. After Els was diagnosed with dementia and their GP was reluctant to assist with euthanasia, they turned to a mobile euthanasia clinic. The couple's son supported their decision, although it was emotionally challenging for him. Jan and Els spent their last moments surrounded by family and friends before being administered lethal medication by doctors. Their son plans to keep their campervan to create more family memories before eventually selling it. The case highlights the complex ethical and legal considerations surrounding euthanasia, especially in cases involving dementia. The couple's decision to end their lives together sheds light on the growing trend of duo-euthanasia in the Netherlands and the impact it has on families and society.
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8 commentsI’d agree that in the transient case, intervention should take place. But in a case like this where it’s planned and reviewed with a doctor, I don’t see any ethical problems.
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