Laurien Hoeve, a 28-year-old woman from the Netherlands, who suffered from chronic fatigue syndrome, a debilitating condition with no known cure, chose to end her life through euthanasia last week. Her final post on social media, in which she announced her decision and said goodbye to her loved ones, touched the hearts of many people around the world.
In her post, Hoeve wrote: “My last day will be Saturday. I have chosen to end my life through euthanasia. I have been suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome for 15 years and it has become unbearable. I have no hope of improvement and no quality of life. I have tried everything to get better, but nothing helped. I am exhausted, in pain, and lonely. I can’t do anything I enjoy or find meaningful. I can’t even read a book or watch a movie. I have lost myself and my will to live.”
Hoeve explained that she had been considering euthanasia for a long time and that she had met all the legal and medical criteria to qualify for it. She said that she was grateful for the support and understanding of her family, friends, and doctors, who respected her choice and wished her peace. She also thanked her followers for their kindness and encouragement over the years. She ended her post with a quote from the poet Rumi: “Don’t grieve. Anything you lose comes round in another form.”
Hoeve’s post received thousands of comments, messages, and shares from people who expressed their sympathy, admiration, and solidarity. Many people shared their own stories of living with chronic fatigue syndrome or other chronic illnesses and how they related to Hoeve’s struggle. Some people also praised Hoeve for her courage and honesty and for raising awareness about euthanasia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Euthanasia, which means the intentional termination of life by a physician at the request of a patient, is legal in the Netherlands under strict conditions. The patient must have a voluntary, well-informed, and persistent request to die, and must be suffering unbearably and hopelessly from a medical condition. The physician must also consult another independent physician and report the case to a review committee. According to the latest statistics, there were 6,361 cases of euthanasia in the Netherlands in 2019, accounting for 4.2% of all deaths.
Chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, is a complex disorder that causes extreme and persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest and that interferes with daily activities. The cause of the condition is unknown, and there is no specific test or treatment for it. Other symptoms may include muscle and joint pain, cognitive impairment, sleep problems, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. The condition affects an estimated 17 million people worldwide, mostly women.
Hoeve’s death has sparked a debate on the ethical, legal, and social aspects of euthanasia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Some people argue that euthanasia is a humane and compassionate option for people who are suffering intolerably and have no hope of recovery. They also claim that euthanasia is a matter of personal autonomy and dignity and that people have the right to decide when and how to die. Others contend that euthanasia is morally wrong and that it violates the sanctity of life and the duty of care. They also fear that euthanasia may be abused or misused and that it may undermine the value and respect for human life.
Similarly, some people advocate for more research, funding, and recognition for chronic fatigue syndrome and other chronic illnesses that are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed by the medical community and the society. They also call for more support, education, and awareness for the patients and their caregivers, who face many challenges and difficulties in coping with their condition. Others question the validity, severity, and causes of chronic fatigue syndrome and other chronic illnesses and suggest that they may be influenced by psychological, social, or environmental factors. They also propose alternative or complementary therapies, such as lifestyle changes, exercise, or counseling, to help the patients improve their health and well-being.
Hoeve’s story has also inspired many people to reflect on their own lives and choices and to appreciate what they have. Some people have expressed their gratitude for the simple things in life, such as health, happiness, and love. Others have shared their hopes and dreams for the future and their determination to overcome their obstacles and challenges. Hoeve’s story has also reminded many people of the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others, especially those who are suffering or in need.