Katrin Sickert – That's how she rolls

That people see the positive skills of others first, and not their shortcomings – that is Katrin Sickerts heartfelt wish. But also traveling is very high on her wish list. She can laugh about many things – and she does it happily and loud. Why compliments and appreciation are important to her and what kind of role for pupils she has in mind, she tells us at REHACARE.com.          

When did you last laugh heartily and what about?

Katrin Sickert: I like to laugh and I do it often (and apparently very loud, as I was told). Just now at breakfast, I laughed with U. about flat jokes and slapstick comedy. U. also has multiple sclerosis. We are both very glad that we have each other, here among all the elderly in the residential and nursing home.

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

Katrin Sickert: I'd like to go on vacation, to the sea. For four years now I am very dependent on the help of others, because I sit in the wheelchair and I’m also otherwise not very resilient. With company, I can walk a short distance with a rollator. I'd like to practice this every day, not only one or two times a week. So far, I did not dare to travel alone, because for me it is all too complicated to organize everything.

Which person has influenced you most?

Katrin Sickert: My parents, because the always stood by my side, because they live such an interesting life and do so many things that I’d like to do: traveling, visiting concerts and presentations…

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

Katrin Sickert: I would make it easier for cities to become accessible. I would send disabled people to schools, so that they can talk to the non-disabled pupils and sensitize them for disabled people. The healthy human didn’t give a thought about all the things that are a barrier for disabled people. The pupils are our future!

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

Katrin Sickert: I don't know, but probably I don't trust a non-disabled actor to represent a disabled person in an authentic way.

I would like to be ...

Katrin Sickert:  WHY are the people bashing each other's heads, when everyone wants the same, that is peace?

What I finally want to say...

Katrin Sickert: Don't save on compliments and appreciation, if you like something! Life passes by way too quickly!