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Sculptor Jackie Ferrara Dies at 95 Through Medical Aid in Dying in Switzerland

Her estate adviser said she chose a Basel clinic to avoid dependency after recent falls.

Overview

  • Estate and legacy adviser Tina Hejtmanek confirmed Ferrara died on Oct. 22 at Pegasos, an assisted-dying nonprofit in Basel.
  • Ferrara told the New York Times she was in good health but felt ready to die after two falls and a resolve not to rely on others.
  • Medical aid in dying is not legal in New York, and U.S. programs generally require a terminal diagnosis, prompting her travel to Switzerland.
  • Swiss law has permitted non‑terminal, self‑administered assisted dying for decades, which differs from euthanasia where a doctor administers drugs.
  • The acclaimed sculptor’s work is held by the Museum of Modern Art, and her case follows Ruth and Michael Posner’s September deaths at the same clinic.