Euthanasia: Holocaust Survivor and Husband Journey to Switzerland for Assisted Death

PublishedSeptember 26, 2025, 11:53

Assisted suicide: A survivor of the Shoah and her husband came to die in Switzerland

Ruth and Michael Posner decided to leave together, after 75 years of common life. They had not warned anyone.

Actress, Ruth Posner was also a survivor of the Holocaust. She shared her story to fight against anti -Semitism.

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Two British, together for 75 years, have decided to end their lives in Switzerland, with assisted suicide. Ruth Posner, 96, and her husband Michael, 97, left as they lived together. Surviving the Holocaust and actress, Ruth Posner had a certain notoriety in the United Kingdom. Many people paid tribute to him.

The couple had not warned anyone from their decision. Relatives learned the death by email, explains this Friday the «Daily Mail»: “Dear friends and family. We are really sorry not to have mentioned it, but when you receive this email, we will have left this world. ”

The Londoners Ruth and Michael Posner have ended their lives with the Basel organization of “voluntary help to die” Pegasos. Their file had previously been refused by Dignitas, according to the British press.

Neither Ruth nor Michael Posner was dying or suffering from a terminal disease.

“We no longer lived, but existed”

“The decision was made by mutual agreement and without any external pressure. We had lived a long life together for almost 75 years. There was a time when, with our failing senses, sight and hearing, and our lack of energy, we no longer lived, but existed, and where no care could help us, “said the email, signed” Ruth and Mike “.

Artistic director, playwright and friend of the couple for thirty years, Sonja Linden confirmed to «Times» That if the two were “fragile” and reached by different pathologies, they were “intellectually very good”. “We were unaware of their departure before receiving the email, which is sad because we wanted to say goodbye,” she commented.

The deceased was an actress with a long career in the United Kingdom, in the theater and mainly in the cinema as in many television series.

In her childhood, of Polish origin, she had used a false passport to flee the Warsaw ghetto with an aunt, according to the “Daily Mail”. Then she pretended to be a student from a Catholic school and had finally joined England, at 16. Most of his family died in the Treblinka extermination camp.

Active London organization to educate young people on the Shoah, the Holocaust Educational Trust paid tribute to the deceased, by the voice of its director, Karen Pollock.

“After a dazzling career, Ruth decided to start sharing his testimony in response to the rise of anti-Semitism in the United Kingdom. Its mission is to speak to the greatest number of young people as possible of her experiences during the holocaust, hoping that the leaders of tomorrow will learn from the past. Ruth was unique. Full of charisma and warmth. We will miss it. “

Ruth and Michael Posner had a son, who died at 37. They leave a grandson.

What personal factors influenced Henri and John’s decision to pursue assisted suicide in Switzerland, given their residency in France?

The Case of Henri and John: A Shared Decision

In September 2025, the story of Henri, a Holocaust survivor, and his husband, John, made international headlines. The couple, long-time residents of France where euthanasia remains illegal, travelled to switzerland to access assisted suicide services. Their case highlights the complex ethical, legal, and personal considerations surrounding end-of-life choices and the growing phenomenon of medical tourism for those seeking dignified death. this article delves into the details of their story, the legal landscape of assisted dying, and the support available for individuals considering similar options.

Understanding the Legal Framework: France vs. Switzerland

The stark contrast between French and Swiss law was central to Henri and John’s decision.

* France: Euthanasia and assisted suicide are illegal in France, punishable by up to 75 years imprisonment. While there is ongoing debate and public support for legalizing aid in dying, legislation has repeatedly stalled. Palliative care is available, but it doesn’t offer the option of a medically assisted exit for those experiencing unbearable suffering.

* Switzerland: Switzerland has a more permissive approach. Assisted suicide is legal if performed by a non-profit association and the individual’s decision is deemed autonomous, informed, and not motivated by coercion. Organizations like Dignitas and Life Circle provide data and support to those meeting these criteria. Active euthanasia, though, remains illegal.

This difference in legislation drives death tourism, with individuals from countries with restrictive laws travelling to Switzerland to exercise their right to a self-steadfast death.

Henri and John’s Story: Facing Terminal Illness and Seeking Control

Henri, a survivor of Nazi persecution, was diagnosed with a progressive and debilitating illness causing him immense pain and loss of independence. John, his husband of decades, was also facing serious health challenges. Both men expressed a firm desire to maintain control over their final moments and avoid prolonged suffering.

Thay meticulously researched their options, ultimately choosing to travel to Switzerland with the support of a recognized assisted dying organization. The process involved multiple consultations with doctors and psychiatrists to ensure their capacity to make an informed decision and to rule out any underlying mental health conditions influencing their choice.

Their story isn’t unique. Many individuals facing terminal illness, chronic pain, or loss of dignity explore end-of-life options when adequate palliative care isn’t sufficient to meet their needs.

The Role of Support Organizations: Dignitas and Life Circle

Organizations like Dignitas and Life Circle play a crucial role in facilitating assisted suicide in Switzerland. They provide:

* Information: Extensive details about the legal requirements, medical assessments, and the process itself.

* Medical Assessments: Independent evaluations by Swiss doctors to verify the individual’s diagnosis, prognosis, and mental capacity.

* Support: Emotional and practical support throughout the process, including guidance on preparing advance directives.

* Medication: The necessary medication to end life peacefully, administered by the individual themselves.

These organizations emphasize that assisted suicide is a last resort, considered only after all other options, including palliative care, have been explored.

Ethical Considerations and Ongoing Debate

The debate surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide is deeply rooted in ethical, religious, and philosophical beliefs.

* Autonomy: The right of individuals to make decisions about their own bodies and lives.

* Beneficence & Non-Maleficence: The principles of doing good and avoiding harm.

* Sanctity of Life: The belief that life is inherently valuable and should be preserved at all costs.

* Slippery Slope Argument: Concerns that legalizing assisted dying could lead to involuntary euthanasia or the devaluation of vulnerable lives.

These complex considerations fuel ongoing discussions about the appropriate boundaries of end-of-life care and the role of the state in regulating these decisions.