(Newswire.net— May 4, 2018) — The oldest Australian scientist, 104-year-old David Goodall, has announced that he will travel to Switzerland where he wants to undergo euthanasia.
In the Australian state of Victoria, euthanasia was legalized at the end of last year, but is allowed only in cases of severe terminal illnesses. Professor Goodall, however, has no terminal illness; he is simply tired of living.
Goodall explained that he had “a lot of trouble” that “deteriorated his quality of life”, so he choose to end it with dignity. Professor Goodall found an agency in Basel, Switzerland, that offers “essential medical services” which is their way of describing painless euthanasia to anyone who wishes to end their own life. His application was urgently considered and approved by the agency.
The people who support Goodall in his intention have already collected about 15,000 dollars to cover the expenses of his travel and service, which is scheduled for May 10, the Sun reports.
As he has left Perth Airport, Australia for the start of his final journey, the eminent botanist wore a sweatshirt with the slogan “ageing disgracefully.”
The UK born Australian professor will spend several days with more of his family in Bordeaux, France, before heading to Basel where he is due to end his life. “I don’t want to go to Switzerland, though it’s a nice country,” he said. “But I have to do that in order to get the opportunity of suicide which the Australian system does not permit. I feel very resentful.”
Supporters of the renowned academic had earlier expressed fears that Australian officials would prevent him from travelling to Europe.
David Goodall was a professor of geotechnics and environmental statistics at the University of “Edit Kouen” in Perth. The management of the university retired Goodall, however, this decision was soon re-examined under the pressure of Goodall’s colleagues.
Goodall still had the will and motivation to continue not only living but also working as a university professor, but when the years finally starting catching up with him, his teaching days were over. As he turned 104, he decided enough is enough.
Nearly half of US citizens (42%) stated they are supporting voluntary euthanasia. In 2001, The Netherlands became the first country to legalize euthanasia.