A 28-year-old woman’s decision to choose euthanasia next month has sparked a huge conversation online, especially after she revealed why she’s opting out of a traditional funeral.
Euthanasia, the practice of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering, always brings up a lot of emotions and opinions. It’s a complex topic that splits views right down the middle.
In a similar vein, the parents of a 33-year-old who also chose euthanasia shared their side of the story, supporting their child’s decision wholeheartedly.
Now, stepping into the spotlight is Zoraya ter Beek, a young woman from a quaint Dutch town who, despite being physically healthy, has decided to end her life. Her choice is making waves across the media.
People online have been weighing in, with one person commenting, “Her choice, I’m sure it hasn’t been an easy decision but the peace of going on your own terms in a peaceful and controlled manner sounds so dignified.” Another shared, “I think it’s insane that people would rather see someone alive and suffering than not suffering… at least with an assisted death we get to say our goodbyes.” And another supporter said, “I support this. I am sorry she has suffered so much. I believe telling people it’s selfish are also selfish. May you finally rest in peace.”
Experts like Stef Groenewoud, a healthcare ethicist, have noted that euthanasia has transitioned from being an ‘ultimate last resort’ to a more widely accepted option offered by healthcare professionals.
Meanwhile, Kit Vanmechelen, a psychiatrist involved in assessing and performing euthanasia, expressed her gratitude that euthanasia is now seen as an ‘alternative’ to suicide, stating, “The ones I know will commit suicide are terminal in my opinion. And I don’t want to abandon my patients who are not able to go on with their lives.”
Zoraya ter Beek, who suffers from depression, autism, and borderline personality disorder, has shared that her unbearable condition has led her to this decision. Despite her struggles, a psychiatrist once told her, “There’s nothing more we can do for you. It’s never gonna get any better.”
Reflecting on her journey, ter Beek said, “I was always very clear that if it doesn’t get better, I can’t do this anymore.” As she nears her final days, she poignantly tells RTL News, “I don’t want to die, but I can’t live. Then it’s a choice between growing old, sick and with a lot of misery, or honouring myself and saying: I’m quitting.”
Ter Beek has announced she will be stepping away from social media, sharing on X, formerly Twitter: “It was an honour for me to provide insights to people who were open to learning something.”
Explaining her decision to forego a traditional funeral, ter Beek plans to be cremated after being euthanised on her sofa, to avoid burdening her boyfriend with the upkeep of a grave. “I did not want to burden my partner with having to keep the grave tidy,” she explained.
Instead of a funeral, her boyfriend will scatter her ashes in a chosen spot in the woods. “We have not picked an urn yet, but that will be my new house!” ter Beek concludes with a touch of her characteristic frankness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with similar issues, remember help is available. In the US, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text Crisis Text Line at 741741. In the UK, contact the Samaritans 24/7 by calling 116 123, emailing [email protected], or visiting their website to find the nearest branch.
