Noah Herniman’s story is a heart-wrenching reminder of the tough choices life sometimes throws our way. Diagnosed at just 15 with an inoperable brain tumour, Noah, now 19 from Chepstow, bravely faces a battle most of us can’t even imagine. His journey began at 14 when he noticed a tremor in his arm. By 2021, the harsh reality hit: it was a brain tumour, one that couldn’t be operated on.
Despite two gruelling courses of chemotherapy, Noah’s tumour continued to grow, steadily robbing him of the simple joys of being a teenager. He’s lost incredible weight, needed feeding tubes, and has been bound to a wheelchair. Through all this, Noah’s weight of living without a prognosis has led him to a firm belief: he wants the option to choose when enough is enough if his condition worsens.
The issue of assisted dying is being debated, with Senedd members soon to vote on legislation. Regardless of where you stand, Noah’s plea is heartfelt: “Let me die with dignity.” Even his mother, once opposed, now stands by his choice after witnessing the pain he’s endured and the friends he’s lost too soon.
In a world where laws between borders can change lives, Noah argues why Wales should align with England should such laws pass. For Noah, life plans are still unfolding—he’s heading to university with dreams of acting. But, at the back of his mind is the harsh reality that he might have to cross borders again, maybe even to Switzerland, if no legal change happens at home.
This story is about more than a vote; it’s about empathy and understanding the choices of those who suffer, like Noah. What would you do in his shoes? Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts.