In a dramatic turn of events, Romy defied her own plans for euthanasia and chose life, fueled by a question that shifted her view on assisted suicide.
At a Glance
- A young woman named Romy initially planned to die under the Netherlands’ assisted dying laws, but changed her decision at the last minute.
- Suffering from depression and eating disorders due to childhood abuse, Romy applied for euthanasia at 18 and was approved by 22.
- As she prepared for the procedure, Romy had a sudden change of heart when asked for her final consent.
- She is now pursuing a diploma in adult education and has expressed a renewed will to live.
Decision at the Crossroads
Romy, a 22-year-old woman from the Netherlands, had set her mind on ending her life through euthanasia, a right supported by Dutch law. Years of battling severe clinical depression and eating disorders stemming from childhood abuse had led her to this drastic decision. The Euthanasia Expertise Center approved her request, setting the date for June 19, 2023.
On the day scheduled for the procedure, Romy approached her fate with unsettling composure, painting her nails and selecting a funeral dress as part of her preparations. The phrase “life sucks” donned on self-made T-shirts and a tattooed euthanasia date on her neck underscored her resolve to end her life, but a question asked at a pivotal moment made her reevaluate.
The Power of a Question
The procedure commenced with Romy and her mother at the hospice, her brother waiting outside. As the doctor explained the steps ahead, stating, “The first injection numbs your vein. The second injection will stop your breathing. After that you will die quickly,” Romy was asked one final question: “Are you sure?” At that moment, Romy chose life, saying to friends and family, “Dear all, I have changed my mind at the last minute and will not die today. Sorry for the panic I may have caused you.”
A Journey of Rediscovery
Following her decision, Romy embarked on an inspirational journey towards mental health recovery, a narrative marked by uncertainty, growth, and rediscovery. Now studying for a diploma in adult education, she lives in communal assisted living where she finds value in everyday actions like paying rent. This journey highlights not only her personal resilience but also the ongoing challenges that individuals face when confronting mental health battles.
This triumph of life over death challenges the conventional perceptions of Dutch euthanasia laws, especially where psychiatric conditions are involved. Romy’s reversal of decision emphasizes the importance of mental health support systems and highlights the possibilities of living beyond despair.
Reflecting on Dutch Euthanasia Policy
The Netherlands’ euthanasia laws permit assisted dying under specified conditions, including unbearable psychological suffering with no improvement prospect. Instances like Romy’s and that of Aurelia Brouwers—a woman who chose euthanasia for psychiatric reasons—sparked debates among mental health professionals, questioning ethical boundaries and the adequacy of existing mental health care.
Critics argue that all therapeutic avenues should be explored before considering euthanasia, while others view it as a humane option for those in profound distress. Romy’s story serves as evidence of the potential for change and recovery, even in the most dire situations, encouraging a reassessment of such critical policies.
