Netherlands: Euthanasia for alcoholism.

Alex Schadenberg
International Chair - Euthanasia Prevention Coalition.

Marcel Langedijk's brother - Mark

Michael Cook, the editor of BioEdge, reported that Dutch journalist, Marcel Langedijk, is writing a book about the euthanasia death of his brother Mark, who was an alcoholic. Cook reported:

The ever-expanding circle of eligibility for euthanasia now includes alcoholism. Writing in the Magazine Linda, journalist Marcel Langedijk describes the life and death of his brother Mark, an alcoholic. 

After eight years and 21 stints in hospital or rehab, Mark decided that he had enough. He had two children but his marriage had collapsed; his parents cared for him and he had plenty of family support, but he was unable to dry out.  

Finally he asked for euthanasia. Physically he was quite ill and psychologically he was suffering badly. 

A woman doctor in a black dress and sneakers arrived to give him his lethal injection. She confirmed his decision and then gave him three doses.

Mr Langedijk is writing a book about his younger brother’s disease and his death through euthanasia which will be published next year.

Recently the Dutch government announced that they will be amending the euthanasia law to include people who are not sick or dying but who simply believe that they have lived a "completed life" - whatever that means.

The Netherlands permits euthanasia for psychological suffering. The term - psychological suffering - has expanded over time.