Advent full of hope: Lichtblickhof brings joy for sick children
Advent full of hope: Lichtblickhof brings joy for sick children
In the contemplative Advent season at Lichtblickhof, a unique facility in the Vienna area, a special moment was celebrated. Numerous celebrities from politics and entrepreneurship, including cabaret artist Gery Seidl, who acts as an ambassador for the Lichtblickhof, gathered with families to collect the Advent together. The Lichtblickhof turns out to be a place where joy and grief are closely related and offers support for children and adolescents who have suffered severe blows of fate.
Federal Minister Johannes Rauch spoke of the impressive work of the team, which gives the affected families bright spots and hope in difficult times with “incredible commitment”. Every year, around 350 children and adolescents with their families visit this facility, which return through their special offers, including animal -assisted therapy, hope and strength. The 19 therapy horses play an important role in conveying 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 faster than their relatives do. This sensitivity enables the therapist to respond to the needs of the children.
In addition to the horses, other animals, such as dogs, cats and rabbits, are also integrated into the therapy. This animal -assisted work is not only perceived by the little patients, but also helps to offer joy and distraction in 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 incurable diseases for a moment.The non-profit association E.Motion-Lichtblickhof is dependent on donations in order to continue his valuable work. Demanding therapies and support are made possible thanks to the support of private donors and companies that also promote animal -assisted therapy in a million city like Vienna.
In another special offer, families in Pyhra in Lower Austria can take advantage of several days of therapy on another Lichtblickhof. Since 2022, families have also been inpatient in the new Lichtblick apartments. This model of children's hospice accompaniment with animals is not only unique in Austria, but also internationally and is highlighted as a "best practice" example in various congresses.
For those who want to support the Lichtblickhof, there are opportunities for donation. The donation account is: AT22 3200 0000 1105 2255. Further information is on the website www.lichthof.at . This remarkable initiative combines animals and therapy in a way that not only offers support, but also hope for affected children and their families.