Belgium Launches Investigation into Euthanasia Program Following Nurse’s Suffocation of Patient
Belgium has launched an investigation into a euthanasia program after a nurse suffocated a terminally ill patient with a pillow. The incident has raised concerns about the practice of euthanasia, which is legal in the country. The 36-year-old patient, Alexina Wattiez, had requested euthanasia after being diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2021.
According to reports, Wattiez’s health deteriorated rapidly in 2022, and she and her partner prepared for her death. On the fateful day, a doctor and two nurses visited Wattiez’s home. Her partner and daughter said their goodbyes before being instructed to wait outside.
However, what was expected to be a peaceful procedure turned tragic when screams were heard coming from Wattiez’s room. Her partner rushed in to find her suffocated with a pillow. An autopsy later confirmed that she died of asphyxiation.
The incident has prompted outrage and legal action. Wattiez’s partner is suing the organization responsible for administering euthanasia. The family’s lawyer emphasized the need to prevent such a tragedy from happening again and called for a debate on end-of-life practices.
Following the incident, the Public Prosecution Service of Liège has opened a murder investigation. Politicians and doctors in Belgium have also condemned what occurred, stating that the incident does not align with the true nature of euthanasia, which should provide relief from suffering.
Belgium’s euthanasia laws have faced criticism in the past. In 2014, the country passed legislation allowing euthanasia for terminally ill children without any age limit. However, the recent incident has reignited the debate around the ethical implications and potential risks of euthanasia.
The drugs used in euthanasia procedures are the same as those used in executions, which can lead to complications. Doctors warn that patients may end up suffocating or drowning due to the paralytic nature of the drugs.
Euthanasia remains illegal in the United States, but several European countries, including Belgium, have legalized the practice. Assisted suicide, where individuals take action to end their own lives, is also legal in some U.S. states.
As Belgium grapples with this devastating case, it is hoped that the investigation will shed light on the circumstances that led to the nurse’s actions and prompt a critical examination of the euthanasia program to prevent further tragedies.
