LIMA, Peru – Ana Estrada, a Peruvian psychologist who fought for years to obtain the right to die with medical assistance, recently made history by becoming the first person in Peru to die by euthanasia. Estrada, who suffered from an incurable disease that weakened her muscles and confined her to her bed, passed away with dignity after a long legal battle for her right to make end-of-life decisions.
In 2022, Estrada was granted an exemption by Peru’s Supreme Court, allowing her to decide when to end her life without fear of punishment for those who assisted her. This landmark decision marked a significant shift in a country where euthanasia and assisted suicide are illegal, raising awareness about the importance of defending the right to die with dignity.
Despite facing numerous challenges due to her condition, Estrada managed to obtain a psychology degree and became a therapist, demonstrating resilience and determination in pursuing her goals. However, as her illness progressed, she found herself increasingly reliant on others for support, ultimately leading her to seek euthanasia as a means to end her suffering.
Estrada, who battled polymyositis, a debilitating disease without a cure, used her platform to advocate for the right to die with dignity, inspiring thousands of Peruvians along the way. Through a blog titled “Ana for a death with dignity,” she shared her struggles and decision to seek euthanasia, emphasizing the importance of having the freedom to make choices about one’s own life.
With the support of Peru’s Human Rights Ombudsman, Estrada continued to fight for her right to euthanasia, participating in court proceedings through video conferences from her bed. She expressed a desire to have the autonomy to decide when to end her life, highlighting the importance of being able to bid farewell to loved ones in peace and tranquility.
While the legalization of euthanasia remains a contentious issue in many countries, only a handful, such as Canada, Belgium, and Spain, have implemented laws allowing this practice. In Latin America, Colombia and Ecuador are among the few countries where euthanasia has been decriminalized, reflecting evolving attitudes towards end-of-life care.
Estrada’s legacy will endure as she continues to be remembered for her courageous fight for the right to die with dignity, sparking conversations about autonomy, compassion, and the importance of respecting individual choices at the end of life. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding euthanasia and the need for greater awareness and understanding of end-of-life issues.