Others shared their stories of struggling with depression: “That could have been me. I’m thankful 25 years later I did not have that option. People didn’t give up on me and I was given the proper help.”

As for ter Beek, she admits she has a bit of fear: “I’m a little afraid of dying, because it’s the ultimate unknown,” she said. “We don’t really know what’s next – or is there nothing? That’s the scary part.”

As of December 2023, termination of life is currently allowed – with specific local regulations – in Canada, the Netherlands, Switzerland, 11 states in the U.S., Germany, Australia, Belgium, France and Japan.

What are your thoughts on euthanasia or medically assisted death? Do you think the laws are too loose and should be more specific to allow death with dignity for only terminally ill patients? Or should we all have the right to end our lives if we choose?

Share your thoughts with us and then share this story so we can hear what others have to say on this very controversial topic!