A terminally ill Missouri woman named Gayle Hendrix, aged 79, is preparing for a poignant journey to Switzerland for physician-assisted death while she still possesses the strength to travel.
Residing in Cape Girardeau, Hendrix has battled lupus and interstitial lung disease for the past four years, watching her lung capacity decline relentlessly.
“I’ve had a great life, and I want to have some dignity when I’m going to the next phase,” she expressed to 12 KFVS, exuding a calm resignation that speaks to her profound self-awareness.
Her days of vibrant activity have been diminished, replaced by a struggle for breath, even on flat surfaces, showing the relentless nature of her ailments.
“People say, ‘But you don’t look or sound or act like somebody who is near death.’ But I am dying, and that’s what I want to control,” she articulates, presenting a stark truth that many find uncomfortable to confront.
“Existing is not living; I refuse to let my last moments be filled with suffering,” she poignantly added, shedding light on her desires for dignity and choice in the final chapter of her life.
Hendrix now relies on an oxygen machine and can only traverse short distances, a stark departure from her former self. She once relished in an active lifestyle filled with travel, hiking, and bicycles.
“Mom was always busy, either working multiple jobs or attending concerts and festivals,” shared her daughter, Charlene Foeste, recalling vivid memories of a life richer in experiences.
Originally hailing from North Carolina, Hendrix had a fulfilling career in human resources, returning to Missouri after living in various places.
“I wish I could say I was a poet or an artist, but that just wasn’t me,” she reflects lightly. “I took up walking as an outlet, sometimes logging three to five miles every day up until three years ago.”
During the pandemic, boredom crept in, leading her to work again as a contact tracer, a brief stint that filled her days with purpose before she decided to retire once more.
“This journey is going to be hard, but I know what to expect,” Foeste remarked, bracing herself for the emotional aftermath of her mother’s decision.
As their plane takes off for Switzerland this week, where Hendrix plans to end her life on September 26 through assisted dying, she reflects on the swift changes that have marked her decline.
“With each month, I felt my condition worsening. I knew I had to act while I could still walk in and make the trip,” she confides, demonstrating her desire to seize control amid uncertainty.
In the United States, physician-assisted death is legally recognized in ten states and Washington, D.C., but stringent residency requirements loom over many seeking this option. Exceptions exist in Vermont and Oregon.
Choosing Switzerland over the U.S., Hendrix is determined not to wait until her health severely deteriorates, as regulations require patients to be diagnosed with six months or fewer to live before being eligible for assisted suicide.
“I don’t want to endure more suffering, waiting to exhaust every last bit of my strength,” she states firm in her resolve.
Her advocacy for assisted suicide has spanned decades, as she became involved with organizations like Compassion and Choices, emphasizing the importance of options when faced with terminal illness.
This spring, Hendrix completed the necessary paperwork for her assisted death and aimed for a trip in August, but limited availability pushed her plans back.
“The process involves an IV. The first medication puts you to sleep; the second halts all body functions. It’s over before you know it,” she details with a mixture of practicality and serenity.
Once her journey concludes, Hendrix has made arrangements for cremation and the return of her ashes to Missouri, ensuring her final wishes are honored.
Though she feels at peace, the reality of her decision weighs heavily on her loved ones.
“It’s an immense loss for us, and life will never feel the same,” Foeste admits, embodying a pain that transcends words.
Conversations surrounding her decision have been challenging, especially with those who oppose assisted suicide due to moral beliefs.
“Many have differing opinions, often rooted in their faith, but because I’ve been open about my choices, it wasn’t a total shock,” Hendrix reflects, navigating the delicate terrain of family bonds.
While Foeste does not align with her mother’s choice, she underscores her unwavering support for Hendrix’s autonomy.
“I cannot say I agree, but it is not my decision. I love her, and there’s no way she will take this step alone,” she declares, illustrating a bond fortified by unconditional love.
Hendrix is keenly aware that she might be relinquishing further enjoyment of life but prioritizes her desire to avoid a debilitating end.
“I’m resolute in my choice; it feels right for me and my body,” she concludes, embracing the peace that comes from having decided her fate on her own terms.
