Missouri Woman to End Her Life in Switzerland Through Assisted Suicide

A terminally ill Missouri woman is planning to travel to Switzerland to end her own life through physician-assisted death while she is still physically capable. Gayle Hendrix, 79, was diagnosed with lupus and interstitial lung disease four years ago and says her lung capacity is rapidly declining. She believes assisted suicide will allow her to die with dignity and avoid a painful death.

Gayle Hendrix, 79, is a terminally ill Missouri woman who has made the difficult decision to end her life through physician-assisted death in Switzerland. Diagnosed with lupus and interstitial lung disease four years ago, Hendrix's lung capacity has continued to worsen, leaving her struggling to breathe even on flat surfaces.

Despite her deteriorating health, Hendrix remains determined to have control over the end of her life. "I've had a great life, and I want to have some dignity when I'm going to the next phase," she told Fox News. "I don't want to get to the point of, 'This is existing, not living.'"

Missouri Woman to End Her Life in Switzerland Through Assisted Suicide

Hendrix must use an oxygen machine and can only walk short distances. She had lived an active lifestyle before her diagnosis, including traveling extensively, hiking, and cycling. Her daughter, Charlene Foeste, described her as always being on the go.

Hendrix's decision to end her life in Switzerland is driven by several factors. In the U.S., assisted suicide is legal in only ten states and Washington, D.C. However, most have residency requirements, and patients must typically have six months or less to live. Hendrix does not want to wait that long or become more debilitated.

Missouri Woman to End Her Life in Switzerland Through Assisted Suicide

She has been advocating for the right to assisted suicide for decades, and her decision has been supported by groups like Compassion and Choices. Hendrix completed the paperwork for her assisted death this past spring and was planning to travel to Switzerland in August, but she had to push her timeline back due to a lack of open spots.

The procedure involves administering medication through an IV, first to induce sleep and then to stop all bodily functions. Hendrix will be cremated, and her remains will be shipped back to Missouri.

Missouri Woman to End Her Life in Switzerland Through Assisted Suicide

Hendrix acknowledged the impact her death will have on her family. "It's a huge loss, a huge loss for us," Foeste said. "It's not going to be the same."

Hendrix has had difficult conversations with friends and family who do not support her decision, including some who believe it is morally wrong. However, she said most were not shocked by her decision because she had been open about it for a long time.

Missouri Woman to End Her Life in Switzerland Through Assisted Suicide

Foeste does not agree with her mother's decision but respects her choice. "I do love her and support her and there's no way on the planet my mom is going to do this alone, no way."

Hendrix said she is aware she could potentially miss out on more quality living but does not want to risk ending up in a hospital bed. "I just am peaceful about my decision, and it's the right thing for me and my body," she said.