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  • Kathy Schwack – That's how she rolls

Kathy Schwack – That's how she rolls

10.04.2019

More than eight years ago Kathy Schwack booked her first cruise at a travel agency. Everything was new and exciting – especially cruising with disabilities – was a real challenge. She took up this challenge and visited over 70 ports from Panama to Limassol. Who she has the travel gene from and which place is still on her wish list, she tells us at REHACARE.com.
Photo: Kathy Schwack on Lanzarote; Copright: Schwack / Ahoi und Moin Moin

Name: Kathy Schwack
Age: 31
City: I come from the lively Rhineland. I'm at home between Düsseldorf, Cologne and Bonn.
Occupation: Healthcare clerk
Impairment: With my own personal disability, I can't cover long distances without problems. I like to fall back on a helping hand or a handrail. I also don't like cobblestones and places with too high humidity.

What makes you laugh?

Kathy Schwack: I have no objection to a well-done sailor's yarn. I'm at home between Düsseldorf, Cologne and Bonn, so it's obvious that I like carnival and laugh heartily at one or two carnival speeches.

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

Kathy Schwack: In the past my grandparents visited Angkor Wat on one of their trips to Asia. I find this temple very interesting. I have already seen numerous documentaries and reports. When my grandparents visited it, the temple was unfortunately not accessible and very difficult to reach. This should have improved meanwhile, so that I will look at the ruins of Angkor Wat in the future gladly.

Which person has influenced you most? And why?

Kathy Schwack: I inherited the "travel gene" from my grandparents. My grandfather always said during: "The only island I have never visited is Mallorca". I have been travelling since my earliest childhood – by land or by sea. I've even been to Mallorca several times, although I've never visited Ballermann before.

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

Kathy Schwack: Due to my numerous trips to different countries, I know what accessibility can mean for the individual. I have gained a lot of experience abroad. I would like to contribute my experience to the office, positively influence many interfaces and create sustainable comfort for everyone.

Gif animation: REHACARE 2026 from 23 to 26 September 2026 in Düsseldorf/Germany, linked to "More information about the Trade Fair"
Photo: Kathy Schwack looks at the water where a cruise ship is located; Copyright: Schwack/Ahoi and Moin Moin

Kathy Schwack has the "travel gene" from her grandparents. She became infected with the cruise virus more than eight years ago during her first trip. Meanwhile she also helps other people with disabilities to have an unforgettable holiday.

What is especially near and dear to you?

Kathy Schwack: Living with a disability makes me aware of disadvantages and stumbling blocks in this world. A fairer life together and fair behaviour would be a good start.

I would like to be...

Kathy Schwack: ...so free and carefree to visit and enjoy remote and charming destinations.

Which question would you like answered the most?

Kathy Schwack: I know the answer, I'm still looking for the question.

What I finally want to say...

Kathy Schwack: Holidays are a source of refreshment alongside work and everyday life. It is generally said to be the most beautiful time of the year. My goal is to make this time unforgettable and beautiful for people with disabilities and families. Therefore I have created my website in order to get closer to this goal.

Grafik: So tickt; Copyright: beta-web/Schmitz

© beta-web/Schmitz

What makes other people actually happy in life? If you ever wondered, you have come to the right place. In regular intervals REHACARE.com asks a varity of people always the same questions. What results from that? Read for yourself!

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