Nariño, Colombia – July 2025
Erika 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 to her sister, Tatiana Morales, who led an emotional and determined public campaign to honor Erika’s wishes. Tatiana’s advocacy drew support from human rights groups and Colombian citizens who rallied for Erika’s right to a dignified death.
Approval and Final Goodbye
After months of public pressure, Erika was granted approval for euthanasia in February 2025. Her passing, confirmed by Tatiana through heartfelt tributes online, marked both an end to Erika’s suffering and a powerful statement about autonomy, dignity, and compassion in end-of-life care.
Tatiana shared, “She was tired of the pain, tired of not being able to live the life she once dreamed of. This was not just her decision—it was her liberation.”
A Legacy That Endures
Erika Deyanira Morales’s story has become a symbol of resilience and the ongoing struggle for the right to die with dignity in Colombia and beyond. Advocates hope her case will lead to more compassionate health care policies and a reevaluation of how institutions handle requests for euthanasia—particularly among young individuals living with lifelong disabilities.
As Colombia continues to navigate the ethical and legal boundaries of euthanasia, Erika’s voice—amplified by her sister and supporters—remains a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to those who suffer, and the courage it takes to choose peace over pain.
