Younger Patients Only: Belgian Woman Dies from Coronavirus after Refusing Ventilator
The number of coronavirus infections continues to put pressure on healthcare systems around the world.
The likelihood of there not being enough ventilators to assist people with breathing is very high. There are almost 960,000 Covid-19 patients in the United States alone, and intensive care units are in urgent need of ventilators. James Lawler, an infectious disease expert at the University of Nebraska, has emphasized this challenge.
Hospital staff are faced with the heartbreaking choice of deciding which patients will receive a ventilator to potentially save their lives.
Italian doctors previously had to make the tough decision of allocating ventilators to younger patients who had a better chance of survival. This practice has also been reported by the Boston Globe.
As reports continue to surface, there are instances of older patients voluntarily refusing ventilators so that younger individuals can have the opportunity to use them.
A poignant story emerged from Belgium where a 90-year-old woman named Suzanne Hoylaerts, battling Covid-19, chose not to be placed on artificial respiration. Her final words to her daughter were, “Give it to the younger patients. I have had a good life.” This touching account was shared by Fox News.
“I can’t say goodbye to her”
Among the challenges faced by families during this pandemic is the inability to bid farewell in traditional ways. Funeral ceremonies and gatherings have been disrupted to curb the spread of the virus.
Suzanne’s story resonated globally, with tributes pouring in from various parts of the world. Her selfless act gained admiration and respect across social media platforms.
It is heartbreaking to know that people are facing such dire situations. I hope that more ventilators become available to combat this crisis, honoring the sacrifice of individuals like Suzanne Hoylaerts. Rest in peace, Suzanne. You are a hero.
