Advent full of hope: Lichtblickhof brings joy to sick children

Advent full of hope: Lichtblickhof brings joy to sick children

A special moment was celebrated during the contemplative Advent season at the Lichtblickhof, a unique facility in the Vienna area. Numerous celebrities from politics and business, including cabaret artist Gery Seidl, who acts as an ambassador for the Lichtblickhof, gathered with families to ring in Advent together. The Lichtblickhof proves to be a place where joy and sadness go hand in hand and offers support for children and young people who have suffered severe blows of fate.

Federal Minister Johannes Rauch spoke of the impressive work of the team, which with “incredible commitment” gives the affected families rays of hope and hope in difficult times. Every year, around 350 children and young people and their families visit this facility, who give back hope and strength through its special offers, including animal-assisted therapy. The 19 therapy horses play an important role in bringing happiness and joy to the children.

The role of therapy horses

The therapeutic work at the Lichtblickhof is not only unique, but also effective. Therapist Roswitha Zink emphasizes that the horses are unencumbered by human prejudices and often perceive the emotional changes in the children more quickly than their relatives do. This sensitivity enables the therapists to respond specifically to the children's needs.

In addition to horses, other animals such as dogs, cats and rabbits are also integrated into the therapy. This animal-assisted work is not only found calming by the young patients, but also helps to provide joy and distraction during difficult times. Penzing's district leader Michaela Schüchner emphasizes the importance of this program and describes the Lichtblickhof as a place where children can forget about incurable illnesses for a moment.

The non-profit association e.motion-Lichtblickhof relies on donations in order to be able to continue its valuable work. Sophisticated therapies and care are made possible thanks to the support of private donors and companies who financially support animal-assisted therapy even in a city with over a million inhabitants like Vienna.

In another special offer, families in Pyhra, Lower Austria, can take advantage of multi-day therapy offers at another Lichtblickhof. Since 2022, families have also been able to receive inpatient care in the new Lichtblick apartments. This model of children's hospice support with animals is unique not only in Austria but also internationally and is highlighted as a “best practice” example at various congresses.

For those who would like to support the Lichtblickhof, there are opportunities to donate. The donation account is: AT22 3200 0000 1105 2255. Further information is on the website www.lichtblickhof.at available. This remarkable initiative combines animals and therapy in a way that provides not only support but also hope for affected children and their families.