The Documentary Podcast Loving, living and dying together in the Netherlands
Feb 10, 2026
Els von Leningen, a former primary teacher facing dementia, and Jan Faber, a sailor and entrepreneur living with chronic pain, planned to die together. They recount a lifelong partnership, the decision to pursue duo-euthanasia, legal safeguards and ethical debates. The conversation explores timing, family reactions and the practical and emotional preparations for their final moments.
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Law Recognises Fear As Suffering
- Dutch law allows euthanasia for unbearable suffering, including fear of future decline in dementia.
- The Centre of Expertise handles complex cases and grants about a third of requests it receives.
Decision Born From Diagnosis And Pain
- Els and Jan decided duo-euthanasia after Els's dementia diagnosis and Jan's constant pain.
- They discussed the decision openly with their son and long-standing NVVE membership influenced them.
Evaluating Consent In Couples
- Doctors must ensure no coercion in duo-euthanasia and assess each partner separately.
- Some cases reveal pressure from one partner, leading clinicians to refuse joint euthanasia.