Carolina Arruda, a 27-year-old woman from Brazil, has been living with bilateral trigeminal neuralgia for 11 years. This rare condition is known for causing excruciating pain, often described as ‘the worst pain in the world.’ After undergoing four surgeries and numerous treatments, Arruda has revealed on social media that she has decided to pursue euthanasia. She has launched an online fundraiser to raise the funds necessary to travel to Switzerland, where the procedure is legal.
Arruda’s decision to seek euthanasia highlights the immense suffering caused by trigeminal neuralgia. Despite the availability of various treatments, the pain can be overwhelming and debilitating for those who experience it. This case raises important ethical and societal questions surrounding end-of-life choices and the accessibility of compassionate care for individuals with severe and intractable pain conditions.
