There is no diabetic foot in heaven

Today, I learned that my landlord’s mom underwent euthanasia. It left me reflecting on a conversation we had not long ago.

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It was a typical day when I returned to my studio and stopped by my landlord’s place to pick up a package. We started chatting casually, and he asked me, “Why do you always work so late, Emily?”

I laughed and replied, “Well, probably because I’m not that smart.”

As the conversation flowed, I shared details about my project. He seemed genuinely intrigued and, in turn, shared a deeply personal story about his mother. She had been diagnosed with diabetic foot several years ago. From what I know, the prognosis is grim once diabetic foot is discovered. It’s often already too late for effective treatment.

His mother was over 90 years old, making surgery an impossible option. He mentioned that the family was considering euthanasia for her. I was surprised to learn that euthanasia is legal in Belgium. It’s a humane option for those suffering, but hearing it from someone I know gave me a new perspective on its profound impact.

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I never thought the day he mentioned would come so soon. And yet, here we are.

20230218 update:
I saw my landlord today. Once an energetic man, he now looked tired and distant.

“Sometimes I pick up my phone, wanting to call my mom,” he said. “Then I remember, she’s gone. That’s life, right?”

His words stayed with me.