Paola Roldan, a woman who suffered from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and who recently succeeded in decriminalizing euthanasia in Ecuador, died this Monday in Quito, awaiting the entry into force of legislation and protocols that will regulate death with dignity in the country.

The death of 42-year-old Roldan was confirmed to EFE by sources close to the family, while her father, Francisco Roldan, told local media that Paola “died peacefully and surrounded by her close family” after losing his voice completely three days later.

On February 7, the Constitutional Court of Ecuador made a historic decision in favor of Paola Roldan’s demand for a death with dignity. and unambiguous, due to a state of severe suffering resulting from serious and irreversible bodily injury or serious and incurable disease.

With a 95% disability due to ALS, which she was diagnosed with three years ago, Paola Roldan could only move the muscles of her face, without much mobility in the rest of her body.

Days before his sentencing, he called on court judges to rule, saying he didn’t know how long he would fight.

The verdict came nearly six months after Roldan took her case to the Constitutional Court, where she appeared at the historic hearing via video conference, lying in bed, assisted by artificial respiration and constantly cared for by her husband.

“I have lived a full life and know that the only thing I deserve is a dignified death,” he said at that hearing.

Laws and regulations in progress

The death of Paola Roldan occurred within the time frame set by the Constitutional Court to develop rules governing the right to death with dignity in Ecuador.

In its ruling, the Andean country’s highest guarantee court gave the Ministry of Health a two-month period to develop a regulation on the protocol for the use of euthanasia.

Likewise, the court gave the Office of the Ombudsman six months to prepare a bill on euthanasia and the National Assembly (Parliament) one year to debate and issue a regulatory body.

Just a week ago, Paola Roldan indicated on social networks that she had been working for three months on a “very important project for her”, with which she sought to help people who are going through situations similar to hers, “so that they do not go through it alone” .

“We are close to the start. I am confident this will have a huge impact on patients and their families, which is why I have dedicated all my passion and energy to this,” she wrote on March 3, asking other ALS patients to contact her.

“It’s time for people with rare and catastrophic diseases to be treated with the humanity we deserve,” he added.

“I love you”, his last words

In a statement that did not specify the cause or circumstances under which she died, Paola Roldan’s family said Paola’s “fight for the right to die with dignity and compassion has had a lasting impact on our society.”

“His courage and determination paved the way for significant changes in Ecuadorian law, allowing those facing terminal illnesses the opportunity to say goodbye with dignity and without unnecessary suffering,” recalled his family, who thanked him for his “tremendous support.” .” country for the benefit of Paola.

“The displays of solidarity, compassion and understanding touched us deeply and completely strengthened Paola’s conviction. Paola left this world in peace, surrounded by her family, with the inscription “I love you” dedicated to those of us who accompanied her,” they concluded.

For her part, Farit Simon, part of the team of lawyers who filed Paola Roldan’s lawsuit, noted on social networks that she “left a great legacy: the right of the people to decide.” “We will miss his intelligence, determination and love for life and his loved ones,” he concluded. EFE