27.3.2026
A 25-year-old Spanish woman Noelia Castillo Thursday finally put an end to her life after receiving death pills approved by the government.
Castillo died in Barcelona after a long legal battle between her and her parents who refused to grant her the right to die. Her application to be euthanised was approved by a medical body in Catalonia in 2024, but her parents and the Catholic Church did not agree with her.
Miss Castillo was sexually assaulted in 2022, and she attempted to take her own life because of the incident. She tried to commit suicide twice; the last attempt left her with injuries that led to the loss of her legs and had confined her to a wheelchair.
Based on that Castillo applied to be euthanised since she is unable to function properly in life. But after four years of legal battle, she finally got her wish.
Speaking to Spanish broadcaster Antena 3 on Wednesday, the day before her death, Ms Castillo expressed a sense of relief.
“At last, I’ve managed it, so let’s see if I can finally rest now,” she said.
“I just cannot go on anymore.”
Attorney Polonia Castellanos said Ms Castillo’s family was deeply disappointed with the outcome and believed the Spanish government had abandoned and failed their daughter by allowing her to die.
“Death is the last option, especially when you’re very young,” Ms Castellanos said.
Spain legalised physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia in 2021 for long-suffering patients from incurable diseases and for people with unbearable permanent conditions. The process for patients to get approval to die involves submitting two requests in writing followed up by consultations with medical professionals not previously involved in the case.