There are times in life when everything changes - not through your own decision, but through illness, for example. This was the case for resident Volker Falenski. He suddenly became a care case. He has been living at ProCurand since last year Bölschestraße senior citizens' residence and, at 64, is one of the youngest in the organisation.
„Volker finds it difficult to make friends. Surrounded by people who are usually much older than him, he often feels like a stranger in the centre. His life has changed too quickly for him to keep up,“ says Denise Grytzka from social services. She had an idea. Her father-in-law Werner Grytzka, 69 years old, was looking for an honorary position. There was also a dramatic turning point in his life eleven years ago, a stroke that changed many things. He fought his way back to life and still lives independently at home today. He wanted to do something meaningful and give something back.
The two men met. Their first encounter showed that they were a good match! They understood each other and felt a spontaneous connection. They have been meeting regularly ever since. They share memories, laugh about work, talk about politics and what lies ahead. „They both benefit from their friendship. My father-in-law brings warmth, patience and genuine sympathy and gets back gratitude and an honest look at what matters. Loneliness doesn't disappear just because you're with people. It needs real encounters,“ says Denise Grytzka. Stories like this show: Enjoying life doesn't have to end with a terrible diagnosis. And it's never too late to encourage others!
