Erika Deyanira Morales: A Tragic Story of Pain, Perseverance, and the Right to Die with Dignity

Nariño, Colombia – July 2025Erika Deyanira Morales, a 20-year-old woman from Nariño, Colombia, has died by euthanasia after years of physical suffering and emotional trauma stemming from a violent assault in 2021 that left her quadriplegic. Her case has reignited national debate around euthanasia rights in Colombia, especially for young patients living with permanent disabilities. A Life Altered by Violence In 2021, at just 17 years old, Erika Morales was the victim of a brutal attack in a bar restroom, where she was struck with a bottle. The assault caused catastrophic spinal injuries, leaving her paralyzed from the neck down. The aftermath of the incident forced Erika into complete dependency on her family for basic needs, forever altering the course of her life. Fighting for the Right to Choose Despite enduring excruciating pain and loss of autonomy, Erika’s initial requests for euthanasia were denied by her health provider. Under Colombian law, euthanasia has been legal since 1997 for terminally ill patients, and in recent years expanded to include individuals experiencing unbearable suffering from serious injuries or illnesses. However, bureaucratic delays and moral opposition often create barriers to access. Erika’s story gained widespread attention on social media, thanks in large part… CONTINUE READING…