Artist Jackie Ferrara Ends Life Via Medical Aid in Switzerland at 95

Jackie Ferrara, the renowned American sculptor, chose to end her life through medical aid in dying at age 95, traveling to Basel, Switzerland, where assisted dying laws do not require a terminal illness. Despite being in good health, Ferrara made this decision after suffering two falls and wanting to avoid dependence on others. Her death, occurring at the Pegasos nonprofit clinic, highlights differences between Swiss laws permitting self-administered medical aid and more restrictive U.S. laws that generally require terminal diagnoses. Ferrara was a pioneer in minimalist sculpture, known for her geometric wood plank works displayed in major museums including the Museum of Modern Art. Her choice has reignited discussions about autonomy, medical aid in dying (MAID) laws, and cross-border access for those seeking assisted death without terminal illness. Statements from her estate and colleagues emphasized that her death was peaceful, carefully planned, and a personal expression of independence.