Finally, Australian scientist takes own life with joy

David Goodall, The Australian scientist, who went to Switzerland to commit legal suicide has gotten his wish.
Speaking shortly before his death, Goodall expressed joy that he no longer wishes to continue with life. “I am happy I have the chance to end it”.

The scientist who campaigned for the legalisation of assisted dying in his home country ended his life in a clinic in Switzerland.

He died on Thursday at the Life Circle Clinic in Basel, Switzerland, after administering a lethal drug under the guidance of doctors

Exit International which represented Goodall said he passed away listening to Beethoven’s “Ode of Joy”

The practise of euthanasia is not legal in Australia so Goodall had to go to Switzerland, he wished the practise was legal and also hoped his story would help other countries to legalise euthanasia “I’m looking forward to it,” he said of his imminent death. “I’m happy that this period beforehand has been used to interview me, and I’ve brought the ideas of euthanasia to light.”

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Goodalls journey to Europe from Perth, Australia, was facilitated through donations from the public to a tune of over $20,000

Two days before his death, he said since the past 5-10 years , that he had stopped enjoying life because of his failing mobility and sight. In his words he said,”my life has been out in the field (working), but I can’t go out in the field now”. I would love to be able to walk into the bush again and see what is all around me”

Goodall was born in London in April 1914, he held high academic positions across the world, including America, United Kingdom and Australia. He married three wives in his life time, had four kids and 12 grandchildren

After his retirement in 1979, Goodall edited a 30-volume series of books called “Ecosystems of the World,” written by more than 500 authors. In 2016, the professor was awarded the prestigious Order of Australia Medal.

“The process of dying can be rather unpleasant, but it need not be,” he said. “And I hope it won’t be for me”.

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