A teenage girl who was a victim of rape chose to end her life through assisted dying in the Netherlands. Milou Verhoof, aged 17, passed away on October 2, 2023, after enduring years of trauma following a rape at the age of 13. She opted for assisted dying due to psychological reasons.
A documentary titled ‘Milou’s Battle Continues’ documented her journey and the ensuing political controversy that arose after her death, prompting advocacy groups to question the provision of euthanasia for minors. Dutch legislation in 2002 legalized assisted suicide for patients who make voluntary and well-considered requests to end unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement.
On the day of her passing in 2023, Milou received a lethal injection in her childhood bedroom from Dr. Menno Oosterhoff, who has conducted similar procedures in the Netherlands. She prepared herself by getting her nails done and selected an evening dress and high heels to wear in her coffin.
Mireille Verhoof, Milou’s mother, commended Dr. Oosterhoff’s handling of the procedure, stating it was the right decision for her daughter and their family. According to Verhoof, the meticulous approach taken by Dr. Oosterhoff instilled trust in the parents that ending Milou’s suffering was the correct course of action.
While the majority of doctor-assisted deaths in the Netherlands are linked to terminal physical illnesses, cases involving euthanasia due to psychological distress have been rising. In the past five years, there have been 675 instances of euthanasia for psychiatric reasons, surpassing the total from the previous 18 years combined.
Milou’s case has garnered renewed attention following the recent euthanasia of Noelia Castillo, a 25-year-old gang-rape victim in Spain. Noelia’s father, supported by a Christian advocacy group, attempted to halt the procedure through a legal battle, but she ultimately received euthanasia as per her request.
If you require support, the Samaritans offer a free helpline at 116 123, available 24/7. You can also reach out via email at jo@samaritans.org or visit their website to locate your nearest branch.
