Beatriz Gelós

Beatriz Gelós is a 71-year-old teacher. She was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2008. In 2010, doctors told her she did not have long to live. Consequently, she signed an advance directive refusing medical interventions that would artificially prolong her life. Although Beatriz has opted for palliative care, she is fighting to secure the right to euthanasia in the future.

The group Empatía Uruguay released a letter Beatriz wrote to lawmakers in 2023, urging them to decriminalize euthanasia. "I do not know if, as my difficulties increase, daily life will remain bearable even with care. That is why I want the peace of mind of knowing that, when the time comes, I can choose whether or not it is worth continuing this ordeal," she stated.

Her testimony has been pivotal in driving the public debate on euthanasia in Uruguay. She attended the parliamentary debate on August 12, 2025, during which a "death with dignity" bill—aimed at legalizing medical assistance in dying—was discussed and passed in the first legislative chamber. Today, Beatriz hopes the Senate will quickly approve the bill, giving her the assurance that she can access euthanasia when she no longer wishes to prolong her suffering.