Influencer Chooses Assisted Death Amid Alzheimer’s Battle

A Canadian social media influencer, Rebecca Luna, who was struggling with Alzheimer’s disease, has chosen to end her life through assisted dying. In a heartfelt video, she shared with her followers that she was living in a body that felt neither comfortable nor safe.

Luna passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at approximately 1:15 PM on a Saturday, according to a message posted by her eldest daughter, Maya, on a fundraising platform.

At 49, this single mother from British Columbia had received a diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease the previous year. Early-onset Alzheimer’s, though rare, primarily affects individuals younger than 65.

Having amassed over 90,000 followers online, Luna used social media to document her journey with the illness.

She opted for medical assistance in dying (MAID), a legal form of assisted suicide in Canada since 2016. Just last week, she mentioned in a TikTok clip that due to her declining health, her date for this decision was moved up from August to a recent Saturday.

“For the past year and a half, until the date was changed, it wasn’t my choice at all, either legally or medically,” she explained. “But in the last two weeks, I’ve been able to make my own decisions—though it’s been really tough, especially since I’m living in a body that feels really uncomfortable, unsafe… just not good.”

“Waiting another two weeks felt like an eternity,” she added, noting her desire to spend her last moments surrounded by loved ones.

Reflecting on her circumstances, she expressed, “This isn’t what I would have wanted. I wouldn’t have chosen early-onset Alzheimer’s for myself.” She shared some light humor amid her struggles, stating, “A lot was taken away from me except my appearance.”

Luna articulated her wish for “peace… and the absence of suffering.” She expressed her regret about the possibility of dying before reaching 50, but also acknowledged the richness of her life, saying, “I’ve had a really traumatic life, yet this suffering helped me discover who I really am.”

She talked about her past ordeals, including growing up amid abuse and neglect, along with her battle against addiction. Despite these challenges, she noted the importance of her sobriety, stating, “It’s incredible to be sober and face this disease without resorting to alcohol or drugs.”

Diagnosed with a prognosis of only five to seven years to live, Luna ultimately made her decision with the MAID law in mind, which was expanded in March 2021 to allow access for individuals whose deaths aren’t imminent.

To qualify for MAID in Canada, individuals must be over 18, capable of making decisions, and suffering from a “serious and incurable medical condition.” As per the latest revisions, the law will also accommodate those suffering solely from mental illnesses starting in March 2027.

It’s essential to note that this assistance is available only to Canadian residents.

If you’re in New York City facing thoughts of self-harm or a mental health crisis, support is available at 1-888-NYC-WELL. Outside the city, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline can be reached at 988.