In a poignant conclusion to a long battle for autonomy, Noelia Castillo, who was paralyzed following a traumatic gang-rape incident, chose to end her life in Barcelona on Thursday.
At 25, Castillo opted for medically assisted death to escape the relentless suffering that stemmed from a suicide attempt, which resulted in her paralysis from the waist down.
Her life took a tragic turn in 2022 when, overwhelmed by the horror of being assaulted by three men in a state-run shelter for at-risk youth, she leaped from the fifth floor of a building, leaving her reliant on a wheelchair.
Speaking to Spanish broadcaster Antena 3, Castillo expressed relief, stating, “I’ve finally achieved it; maybe now I can find peace. I just can’t endure this any longer.”
Although approved for assisted dying in 2024, her father fought vehemently against her decision, even seeking a last-minute legal intervention to stop the process.
Reflecting on his opposition, Castillo remarked, “He hasn’t respected my choice, and he never will.”
“Why does he want me alive? To keep me in a hospital?” she questioned.
Assisted suicide has been legal in Spain since 2021.
With Post wires
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
