Toddler, 2, euthanized in first case of its kind in Netherlands…

A two-year-old child has been euthanised in the Netherlands, becoming the first known non-infant under 12 to undergo assisted dying under expanded rules.

According to The US Sun, the toddler, born prematurely at 26 weeks, had brain damage, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, breathing difficulties and epileptic seizures unresponsive to medication.

A review committee concluded that the doctor acted with due care after determining the child was suffering unbearably without prospect of improvement. Independent medical opinions were sought.

The Netherlands expanded assisted-dying provisions to terminally ill children under 12 two years ago. Previously, rules covered newborns and people aged 12 and above.

Under the rules, parents must be consulted, while doctors must determine that suffering is unbearable and recovery is impossible.