A man who died by euthanasia earlier today shared a powerful final message to his followers before ending his life.
Scott Hollingshed, from Australia, decided to end his life at New South Wales (NSW) hospital under new voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws.
The laws state that voluntary assisted dying is only available for residents in the area who are older than 18 and have an advanced illness or disease that will cause death in under 12 months.
They must also be in the right state of mind and under no duress or pressure from an outside party.
Hollingshed was suffering from Stage 4 lung cancer, which he was only diagnosed with back in June. However, since then, his condition has deteriorated rapidly to the point where he has only been given six months to live.
He was also told that treatment would not be an option as chemotherapy is too intense for his body to handle at this point, while other related treatments would only provide some relief but no hope of a cure.
As a result, Hollingshed decided that he wanted to have a say in the matter, choosing to end his life "with dignity."
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Speaking to 7News, he previously opened up about the thought process when it comes to making such a big decision.
"I’m at the point where I’ve got something you just can’t fix,” he explained, noting that watching his father die in hospice care changed his own perspective on things.
"But seeing him wither away ... I don’t want to see myself like that and I don’t want other people to see me like that, especially people who care about me," Hollingshed continued.
"It got to the point where I couldn’t even put my socks on and my missus used to get down on her hands and knees and put my socks on,” Hollingshed said of his condition. "I know people do things for people they love but that broke my heart seeing her do that."
Fighting back tears, Hollingshed reflected on his love for his "incredible" partner, who it pains him to leave behind.
"I’m not scared of dying. It happens to everyone,” he added. "My partner’s been through so much and now she’s going through this. It’s going to break her, that’s the only thing that scares me."
Hollingshed's life was ended earlier today, as confirmed by a statement posted to his official Facebook page.
"Scott wanted to share one last post with those of you who followed his journey," the statement read. "He went peacefully today and with dignity and was so grateful that his journey could help someone. Maybe to give anyone a new perspective on life. Give you the courage to be more compassionate, be more loving, do the right things."
It continued: "You don't go out of this world the same as you came in, you're not the equivalent of your lived trauma, you learn, you grow, you lift above whatever is trying to keep you down. And some days you'll fail, but that's ok. Embrace your journey, love more, settle into positivity and try to make a difference to someone who needs it.
"Thank you all for coming here being part of the end of Scott's journey," it added before concluding: "He was amazed by your comments, kindness and help to finish things up without stress. Sending you all light and love."
In a separate post before he passed away, he posted one final, personal video message for his followers.
"Good morning on my last morning, today’s the day," he said. "I’m walking into hospital at 12 o’clock, so I’ve got a few hours for my close friends to turn up, to be there for my beautiful future wife-to-be in the next life, and I guess to say goodbye.
"But I’ve got one final point to get across... just to love one another and be there for one another and f****** give a f***," he added.
After the news was announced, his friend Kellie Lott started a fundraiser in the hopes that the money could help his partner after his death.
So far, it has raised just over $6,000 AUD ($4,000).
