Peruvian woman chooses dignified end through euthanasia, marking a historic milestone
Following a prolonged legal struggle, Ana Estrada, aged 47, succumbed to polymyositis on her own terms, embracing dignity and autonomy till the very last moment, as per her family's testament.
A Peruvian woman who was bedridden and needed constant care due to an incurable disease has made history by becoming the first person in the country to pass away through euthanasia.
After a lengthy legal fight, Ana Estrada, aged 47, passed away according to her own wishes and beliefs in dignity, maintaining control over her choices until the very end, as stated by her family in a message shared on Monday.
Euthanasia is not allowed in Peru, but in February 2021, a Peruvian court ruled that health authorities must honor Estrada's choice to end her life using euthanasia. This marked the first time in Peru's history that the legal system acknowledged and approved an individual's right to choose to end their own life.
Health authorities did not challenge the decision, which was officially approved by the Supreme Court in July 2022.
Her lawyer, Walter Gutierrez, called it a historic ruling and mentioned that Estrada was thrilled about the outcome.
Gutierrez told CNN en Español that Estrada cherished life and desired to live within her circumstances, but also wished for the autonomy to choose her own death.
Estrada, a psychologist, battled polymyositis, a progressive disease that weakened her muscles, rendering her unable to speak and confined to her bed. She relied on a ventilator and round-the-clock nursing care.
Estrada spoke to CNN en Español on two occasions.
During a 2021 interview, Estrada said she wanted to “exercise my right to choose when, how and where to die.”
After four years of legal battles, initially on her own and later with the assistance of the Ombudsman's Office, she had finally reached a resolution.
The family's statement expressed that Ana's legacy will be remembered by many people and in the history of our country.
Editor's P/S:
The landmark ruling in Peru, granting Ana Estrada the right to end her life through euthanasia, is a profound and deeply moving development. It marks a significant step forward in recognizing the autonomy and dignity of individuals facing terminal illnesses. Estrada's unwavering determination to maintain control over her end-of-life decisions, despite the challenges posed by her condition, is both inspiring and heartbreaking.
Her case highlights the complexities and ethical considerations surrounding euthanasia. While it is essential to respect the rights of individuals to make choices about their own lives, it is equally crucial to ensure that such decisions are made with full understanding, free from coercion or desperation. The legal framework in Peru, which allowed Estrada to pursue euthanasia, provides a model for other countries seeking to balance individual autonomy with the protection of vulnerable populations. As the debate on euthanasia continues to evolve, Estrada's legacy will serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion, choice, and the right to die with dignity.
