What makes a day a good day to you?
Christina Keil: A day is already good when I don't have any pain when I get up in the morning. Good weather is also great – being out and about in the rain or snow as a wheelchair user is really more than difficult for me. Successful training and new progress also crown a day.
Which day or moment in your life do you particularly like to remember? And why?
Christina Keil: There are many memories of wonderful experiences. I've always been a very positive person who tries to find something positive in everything. My professional successes were always very important to me, as I put my heart and soul into my job. I have also always had fond memories of activities with my partner and my family. I liked going out at the weekend to have a good time with friends and enjoy my life.
What has been the biggest challenge in your life so far and how did you overcome it?
Christina Keil: The biggest challenge in my life was definitely my sepsis in 2021, the heart surgery and the consequences. When I woke up in the intensive care unit after five weeks in an induced coma, my entire life had changed. The sepsis and the long period of lying down had caused my muscles to break down massively and I was completely immobile.
You don't expect to experience something like that at my age. My partner was my lifesaver, who was always by my side and looked after me completely selflessly and still does today. It's largely thanks to him that I still have such a positive outlook on life – because he gives me the strength to keep going every day to recover and get back on my feet.
Which assistive devices are indispensable for you in everyday life and why?
Christina Keil: My wheelchair is my most important assistive device. Without it, I would not be able to get around as I am unable to walk or stand. The stair climber is also necessary to get out of my apartment. Unfortunately, I live in an old building and have to go up and down several steps every day to even get out. I also need my electric slatted frame as I have problems lying flat.
If you could invent your own assistive device, what would it look like and what would it have to be able to do?
Christina Keil: I am already well supplied with assistive devices. But I would still really like it to be easier and, above all, quicker to get hold of them. It's so annoying to get stuck in therapy because you have to wait months for a new aid. That has often slowed me down. I would also like every person affected to have a great partner like me at their side.