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Nicole Kraß – That's how she rolls

Diving into life – above and under water

12.07.2023

Nicole Kraß loves diving. Even her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis did not change that. With her website "Tauchen mit Handicap" (Diving with a handicap), the self-employed journalist now stands up for all people who want to follow the same passion – despite physical limitations. Which fictional character we should all take as an example and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
Photo: Nicole Kraß smiles at the camera; Copyright: N. Kraß
Name: Nicole Kraß
Age: 53
City: Eitensheim, Germany
Occupation: Journalist, self-employed
Disability: Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis 2017

What makes a day a good day to you?

Nicole Kraß: The realisation that we only have one life! Every day is a good day.

Which auxiliary means or daily living aids are indispensable for you?

Nicole Kraß: Stair railings! Handholds give me support and security depending on the day.

What would you like to see from society and your fellow people in dealing with people with disabilities?

Nicole Kraß: Look instead of looking away! And at best, don't make any "differences" at all. Instead of "disabled" / "not disabled" simply "human".

Which assistive device would urgently need to be invented and/or improved?

Nicole Kraß: For divers with physical limitations, I would like to see adaptive wetsuits. That makes it easier.

Gif animation: REHACARE 2025 from 17 to 20 September 2025 in Düsseldorf/Germany, linked to "Get your tickets now"
Photo: Nicole Kraß in full diving gear; Copyright: N. Kraß

Nicole Kraß would like to have wetsuits that adapt (better) to the body.

What has been your biggest challenge so far that you have mastered – and what has helped you?

Nicole Kraß: The emotional management of my illness(es). What helped: Conversations, openness and ultimately an MS support group.

What can the assistive technology industry learn from the Corona pandemic to make life easier and/or better for people with disabilities in the future?

Nicole Kraß: The medical aid industry is doing a great job, constantly developing new innovative and imaginative products. Unfortunately, there are still problems with the approval of assistive devices. Something has to be done here, the hurdles are often far too high.

If nothing was impossible: Who would you like to meet one day and why?

Nicole Kraß: Pippi Longstocking. Because she shows how it's done: simply do what makes you happy!

What was your best REHACARE experience?

Nicole Kraß: The invitation to present my project at REHACARE.

What I wanted to say...

Nicole Kraß: Don't let yourself be limited!

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