HelensNepenthe
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- Jan 17, 2019
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A Dignified Death
A documentary by Jesse van Venrooij
To give some perspective of where Eelco's health was at, an article by Global Journalist quotes that his mother witnessed him wanting to jump out of a window at the age of seven. Undoubtedly a shocking experience that has left long-term effects on his family -- and himself. Eelco and his family received various pro-life agenda comments of how he had courageous willpower to not commit suicide. Even during his last few days of living, he would receive emails various bibical scripture. For an example John 14 is brought up in an email quoting "I am the way and the truth and the life.". These comments would fall on deaf ears as Eelco only wanted people to respect his wishes. While his family faced harsh criticism, including himself, the people who did support his euthanization were the ones closely related to him by blood; including his significant other who was with him until his euthanization.
A Dignified Death is one of my favorite pro choice films that gives a perspective on a patient who is physically healthy yet is mentally unhealthy. There are a handful of other euthanization films that are accessible to watch, there are very few films that outline how someone could be euthanized for having mental health problems. Contrary to popular opinion, people suffering with mental health problems have as much capacity as someone who is dying of terminal illness. Some of these opinions even spread onto the forum where people believe euthanization organizations like DIGNITAS do not accept mental health patients. While it is not an easy "green light" to be euthanized by these organizations, these groups are allowed to euthanize under their own law. Of course, some discretion is necessary, since these laws vary by country who allow physician assisted suicide.
To whomever is reading this thread, if you are wanting to look further into dying with dignity because your mental health has been a long term problem for you, this film is definitely a great resource to understand from someone who went down that same path. Included in this film is a perspective of a supportive family who understands that their son has suffered for 31 years fighting a never ending battle. While each experience is unique, I believe somewhere within this film there is a perspective that can be shared to others who are reluctant to accept you wanting to die with dignity.
Thank you Eelco, his family, and the crew who worked on this documentary to shed light on mental health. It is a difficult situation when your brain gives you an ultimatnum that not many can relate to. It's the feeling of wanting to give up. It perpetually gets worse every breath you take. It is a life threatening illness. It's hard to have realistic expectations of getting better when you've exhausted all your resources professionally. Your pain of mental suffrage has built enough heat to melt the lead walls surrounding you. There is no way of managing your pain anymore. You finally die with the people who surround you and in a peaceful way. You came home to where you most want to be.
Rest in peace Eelco.
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