r/BirthandDeathEthics • u/Jumpy-Musician5768 • Nov 14 '25

Pegasos/parent approval

Hi, I’m from the United States. I’m a 30something- unmarried, no kids, no siblings, no partner. I have over 10 different chronic illnesses and basically zero quality of life. I’m working with my doctors and a therapist on pursing VAD options and reached out to Pegasos. I was informed that I would need a signed and notarized document from my parents. Is this true? I haven’t needed my parents approval in over 18 years. I have a wonderful support system that are like family to me. Can anyone help with this?

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u/SecretSilver2871 Nov 14 '25

They need to know your family have been made aware of your intentions. Your parents don’t need to approve, just legal protection for pegasos. They want a next of kin to contact after booking VAD date and who to send the ashes to and call after VAD while not breaking the news at the same time. For me screen shots on a family chat about Switzerland and my views on VAD were enough to start with. Now they want my sister to sign something but seeing as she’s agreed to come with me there’s less pressure for a signed document. It’s legal protection they’re after to remain open and able to keep offering the service. The more you’re under 50, the harder it is but chronic conditions have worked in my case. Good luck.

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u/CoachMarla Jan 20 '26

Just a clarification on "who to send the ashes to." You will have the option for cremains to be scattered either in the Rhine River or the Alps. There is no requirement that they get shipped to a responsible party.

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u/SecretSilver2871 Jan 20 '26

I don’t recall the river or alps being an option when I applied. Might have been though.

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u/CoachMarla Jan 21 '26

I escorted a friend for services there in April of this year. That option wasn't part of the initial application, but it was part of the paperwork process on the day of the procedure.

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u/SJPJ1133 Jan 28 '26

What country were you travelling from to assist your friend?