Mrs Z had been diagnosed as suffering from cerebella ataxia, which attacked her motor function. She became increasingly disabled by this condition which was incurable, irreversible and terminal. Despite her condition, she continued to reside at home but required extensive support from her local authority. Around the time of her 65th birthday, Mrs Z began to express strong views about seeking assisted suicide. Initially her family opposed her decision, but, as she persisted in her view, they decided to support her wishes. Having lost the physical ability to carry out the suicide herself, Mrs Z wished to travel to Switzerland where assisted suicide is lawful. Consequently, Mr Z, her husband, made the necessary arrangements and planned to accompany his wife to Switzerland for an assisted suicide. He informed the local authority of that decision.
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