When did you last laugh heartily and what about?
Karina Sturm: Two days ago, when we were invited to dinner with our neighbours and, although being 30 years old, I had no idea how to eat clams.
What have you always been wanting to do and why have you never done this so far?
Karina Sturm: My bucket list is long and many things are limited to it, due to lack of financial resources, others by the disease itself. I always wanted to dance salsa, but today I would dislocate all my joints. Besides, I wanted to go on a trip around the world, which I have half-fulfilled. Other things like learning how to play poker just haven't happened yet. And yet other goals are too big to ever reach, but they remind me of how I would like to live my life ( for example winning the Nobel Peace Prize).
Which person has influenced you most? And why?
Karina Sturm: I was influenced not by one person, but by many different people. I have learned a lot from the women in my family (mother, aunts) who have already had some serious illnesses and have taught me how to fight and never give up. Another very important encounter was with a distant relative, who was always there for me and my problems in his most difficult time, just before he died. He even called me during his chemotherapy and asked me how I was doing. I've rarely met a more selfless man than him. My friends who were always at my side while I didn't know who I am and what was going on with me. I have learned a lot from other people with the same disease, but also from people with completely different diseases.
You have the chance to become the Commissioner for the Disabled in your country. What would you do first?
Karina Sturm: I would like to start a big campaign with people with different diseases and disabilities. Some of them are supposed to say a few words and briefly tell us what their limitations are. This campaign will then be broadcasted on television for several weeks and printed on posters. As long as it takes to get everyone to see it.
