Iain Finlay, an Australian reporter, chose euthanasia after a lengthy struggle with amyloidosis, a rare disease. He was 89 years old.
Finlay, once a journalist for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, died on Tuesday at his home in New South Wales. He was with his partner, Trish Clark, and their children, Zara and Sean, at the time. ABC reported on his passing.
This degenerative condition had severely impacted Finlay’s organs, as amyloid proteins build up in the body, and no treatment currently exists.
The day prior to his death, Finlay mentioned how he had looked into euthanasia years ago, considering it a “sensible” choice for moving forward.
While he had initially participated in a clinical trial for his illness, he ultimately opted for voluntary euthanasia when it became clear the treatment wouldn’t work.
“It’s definitely an effort to manage the dying process, and to ensure it’s at a time when family can be there,” he reflected.
He acknowledged it would be tough for his loved ones: “I think it’s going to be very traumatic for them.”
Clark expressed her deep affection, saying, “I love everything,” and added her hopes of standing up in the days to come.
After his passing, Sean shared a heartfelt tribute online. “Today we parted ways with a truly amazing guy, my father, Ian Murray Mackenzie Finlay,” he posted on Instagram.
He recounted his father’s struggle with amyloidosis, describing it as a progressive heart condition that leaves patients increasingly breathless, ultimately leading to death.
Sean elaborated that, over time, the condition had become unbearable for his father. “He couldn’t even take a few steps without feeling exhausted,” he said.
After multiple consultations, the euthanasia procedure was approved for May 6, 2025, allowing Finlay to choose his departure in the comfort of his home.
Finlay kickstarted his journalism career back in 1956, covering the Melbourne Olympics for United Press.
Later, he became ABC’s Southeast Asia correspondent, contributing to the program “Tonight” for eight years during that period.
Throughout his career, he interviewed acclaimed figures like Ella Fitzgerald, Muhammad Ali, and former US President Richard Nixon.
Finlay had previously experienced medically supported death in New Zealand in 2021.
Euthanasia laws vary, typically permitting it for adults with terminal illnesses expected to die within six months and experiencing “extreme” suffering.
Countries such as the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Canada, Belgium, and Colombia also permit some forms of euthanasia.
