Nathan Verhelst, a 44 year old transgender man from Sint-Niklaas in Belgium, becomes world news when he demands and receives euthanasia after several failed gender operations. Nathan's life is filled with rejection. Thinking of himself as a freak, he can't find peace as a woman nor as a man.
Three doctors decide that his life quality isn't guaranteed and give Nathan permission for euthanasia.
After trying to convince him not to do it, his friends start to support him in his choice. Hoping he would feel loved again, and would find a reason to live. But Nathan doesn't change his mind. "I'm certain", he said, "for the full 300 procent". He went. Dancing.
The lethal injection was given at the University Hospital in Brussels. Nathan suffered from unbearable psychic and physical pain. I started following Nathan with my camera three years ago and documented how 'Nancy' became 'Nathan'. Little did I know the story would end this way. Among his friends, I stood beside his bed, to watch him find his freedom. This documentary is about life, death, gender, identity and the quest for being loved. This connects us all.
'Nathan' is touring the world now on documentary festivals. Here is your chance on a sneak preview of the full documentary. Please spread the word.