29-year-old woman dies after being euthanized.
Zoraya Ter Beek, 29, chose to end her life via euthanasia due to unbearable mental suffering.
Zoraya fought 3.5 years for euthanasia approval.
Her decision followed a grueling three and a half years of battling for approval.
Zoraya’s case has ignited a heated debate on the ethics of euthanasia for non-terminally ill patients.
Zoraya shared her euthanasia journey for awareness.
For over three years, Zoraya publicly shared her euthanasia trial to foster understanding and raise awareness.
Her story attracted many supporters who followed her journey, offering moral support.
Zoraya faced critics before her final approval.
Just last week, Zoraya spoke out about the criticism she faced for her decision.
Critics tried to dissuade her, questioning the legitimacy of her mental suffering.
Despite these challenges, she received final approval for assisted dying a week earlier.
Euthanasia for psychiatric conditions increases.
In the Netherlands, assisted dying for psychiatric conditions is rare but increasing, with 138 cases in 2023.
Zoraya’s case was meticulously assessed over three years, ensuring she met strict criteria.
Zoraya’s mental suffering began in childhood.
Her mental suffering began in childhood, diagnosed with chronic depression, anxiety, trauma, and autism.
She hoped for relief through various treatments, including electroconvulsive therapy and medication.
Despite these efforts, her condition remained unrelenting, pushing her towards assisted dying.
In December 2020, Zoraya applied for euthanasia, seeking a humane end to her suffering.
Zoraya chose euthanasia over suicide for loved ones.
She considered suicide but chose euthanasia to spare her loved ones the trauma.
Zoraya planned to spend her final moments on the sofa in her flat with her partner and cats.
“I feel relief. It’s been such a long fight,” she shared about her impending euthanasia.
2002 euthanasia law allows for unbearable suffering.
The law passed in the Netherlands in 2002 allows euthanasia for those with unbearable suffering.
Critics argue that mental illness should not qualify, fearing undue pressure on vulnerable individuals.
However, supporters emphasize the strict safeguards and the individual’s right to choose.
Zoraya’s public sharing aimed to highlight these complexities and the extensive vetting process.
Friend announces Zoraya’s death on social media.
Her death was confirmed by her friend Martin, who had permission to share updates on her behalf.
Martin announced her passing on May 22, with a poignant tribute on Twitter.
Friend urges critics to reflect on Zoraya’s death.
“To those who doubted her pain or called her names, reflect on your role in this,” Martin wrote.
Zoraya passed away at 13:25, says friend.
He included a screenshot of a post detailing her final moments: “Zoraya died today at 13:25 through euthanasia.”
Zoraya viewed her death as going to sleep.
Martin shared that Zoraya viewed her death as going to sleep, a peaceful end to her suffering.
Martin added that Zoraya had prepared photos for commemorative tweets and requested respect for her loved ones.
“Euthanasia is controversial, especially abroad,” he noted, acknowledging the sensitive nature of her choice.
Zoraya’s story highlights mental health battles.
Her story has shed light on the nuanced debate around euthanasia for psychiatric conditions.
The ethics of her decision continue to spark discussions worldwide.
Many advocates see her case as a call for greater understanding and compassion in euthanasia laws.
Zoraya’s death serves as a stark reminder of the mental health crisis and the need for robust support systems.