Katharina Parafieva lost both legs in an accident. Since then, she has been living with a wheelchair and prostheses. Getting out of her comfort zone and thinking positively were the most important steps for her to actively participate in life again. She tells REHACARE.com what else is important to her.
Name: Katharina Parafieva Age: 37 City: Mannheim, Germany Occupation: Economist Impairment: Amputation of both legs
Katharina Parafieva: Positive thoughts and trust in humanity
Which auxiliary means or daily living aids are indispensable for you?
Katharina Parafieva: Wheelchair and prostheses. Otherwise, unfortunately, my everyday life doesn't work.
What would you like to see from society and your fellow people in dealing with people with disabilities?
Katharina Parafieva: I know that sometimes people are afraid to communicate with me because they don't know how life works without legs. They don't know if I have pain or difficulties. I would like to see more inclusion in society.
Which assistive device would urgently need to be invented and/or improved?
Katharina Parafieva: I am very happy with the aids I have and grateful for them.
What has been your biggest challenge so far that you have mastered – and what has helped you?
Katharina Parafieva: After my accident, it was hard to get back into life and feel good about it. Having goals, thinking positively and getting out of my comfort zone every day – all this definitely helped me.
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?
Katharina Parafieva: People need more personal contact with each other. Especially those who have any difficulties in life.
If nothing would be impossible: Who would you like to meet one day and why?
Katharina Parafieva: My grandma, who died before my accident. I want to tell her my story.
What I wanted to say ...
Katharina Parafieva: My motto: Everything is possible. I wish that all people believe in themselves!
