Erdin Ciplak - That's how he rolls

With his project "BlindLife" Erdin Ciplak tries to address the topic of blindness and visual impairment in a relaxed way. Among other things, he reports on auxiliary means and everyday problems. How his Taekwon-Do coach helps him to master his everyday life and what a dream he connects with a Mercedes CLS AMG, he tells us at REHACARE.com.

When did you last laugh heartily and what about?

Erdin Ciplak: I go through the world with a permanent smile.

What have you always been wanting to do and why have you never done this so far?

Erdin Ciplak: I always wanted to sit in a sports car (for example, Mercedes CLS AMG) and drive it by myself. Of course, with a driving instructor and on a closed race track. I simply love to feel the power of a vehicle and to have control over it. This is my childhood dream. And I would not say "not dared". I haven’t had the opportunity to do so yet.

Which person has influenced you most?

Erdin Ciplak: My Taekwon-Do coach, Master Shin-Gyu Kang. He gives me the strength to hold on to my dreams and pursue my goals. With him I learn the art of the traditional Taekwon-Do. Despite my high degree of visual impairment, I can take part in the lessons and this is a great pleasure. Where there is a will, there is always at least one way.

You have the chance to become the German Federal Commissioner for the Disabled. What would you do first?

Erdin Ciplak: Unified "Blindengeld" (monthly disability benefits for the blind). After that, I would change a lot more. As far as the topic of disability or inclusion, equality and so on is concerned, we are not well established here. It all develops relative slowly and often also in a wrong direction.

Your life is made into a film: Who would represent you?

Erdin Ciplak: My goals are not reached yet so that one could produce a great film which would also correspond with my own expectations. If one day it should be the right time for it, I would like to play myself.

I would like to be ...

Erdin Ciplak: a policeman.

Which questions would you like answered the most?

Erdin Ciplak: Why are people with disabilities still disadvantaged today in society?

What I finally want to say...

Erdin Ciplak: I would be delighted to receive support for my project "BlindLife" which has developed during my studies.