Peter de Bie, a veteran radio presenter, has decided to end his life through euthanasia on his 75th birthday, June 3rd. This difficult decision follows years of declining health and the recent loss of his wife, Dieuwertje Blok, to cancer in March.

De Bie, who spent over 45 years in radio, including 28 at the Nieuwsshow, shared that his body is “literally falling apart.” He cited multiple heart problems, a leg amputation, and several near-death experiences as factors contributing to his decision. Doctors had informed him that they could no longer offer effective treatment, estimating he had no more than a year to live.

The death of his wife, Dieuwertje Blok, a well-known media personality, significantly impacted his perspective. De Bie expressed that her presence had been a vital reason to continue living, stating, “Every day that you wake up next to Dieuwertje Blok is something to live for.” He acknowledged that while friends and family have provided immense support, the prospect of needing constant care or moving to a nursing home was unappealing.

Blok herself faced her cancer diagnosis with remarkable optimism. Even after undergoing a nose amputation due to cancer, she maintained a positive outlook, seeing it as an “adventure.” However, the cancer returned, spreading throughout her body, leading to her death.

De Bie remembers his wife’s strength and wisdom during her final weeks. He recalls her insistence on experiencing the end on her own terms and her desire for her funeral to be a celebration of life. He said that Blok told everyone “Until next time”, so they didn’t have to see her weak and depressed. She wanted the people to remember her happy and cheerful.

De Bie shared that he found solace in his wife’s philosophy of “think warm,” which encouraged him to focus on positive memories even during difficult times. He will be laid to rest next to Blok in a natural cemetery, fulfilling their wish to be together eternally.