The family of a British woman who tragically passed away at a Swiss clinic was shocked to only learn about her death through a brief email. Anne Canning, aged 51, made a secret trip to the Pegasos clinic in Switzerland to end her life in January 2025, following the sudden loss of her son a few months earlier.

Delia, Anne’s sister, expressed her dismay over the lack of communication from the clinic regarding Anne’s decision. The family was unaware of Anne’s intentions until she sent a farewell letter from Switzerland, assuming she was on a holiday trip.

Following a period of silence from Anne, her family traced her location to the Pegasos clinic using postmarks on the goodbye letters. The clinic later confirmed Anne’s passing to her family via a concise two-line email.

While Swiss guidelines recommend informing relatives before a patient’s death, it is not a legal requirement. Delia emphasized how Anne’s mental state had deteriorated after her son’s death, expressing regret that Anne did not seek help or discuss her feelings with her family before making such a drastic decision.

In a separate incident, Wendy Duffy from the West Midlands also chose to end her life at the Pegasos clinic due to her struggle to cope with the loss of her son. Unlike Anne, Wendy informed her siblings about her decision before traveling to Switzerland.

The founder of the clinic described Wendy’s death as a “sane suicide,” emphasizing that she had full clarity in her decision-making. The Pegasos clinic affirmed their adherence to Swiss laws and regulations following an investigation by ITV.

For those in need of emotional support, the Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 for assistance.