Encounter

Inclusion means that every person is equal. What does that mean for your own life?

“I was nine and a half years old when the accident happened. As a child, I had no idea what tetraplegia was. I just felt that my legs were heavy. All I wanted to do was run around. It was only after about two months that they told me I would never walk again. I spent three years in the children’s hospital.

My parents fought to ensure that I didn't have to go into a protected workshop for people with a disability. I came home and was able to take part in normal day-to-day life again. I didn't get any preferential treatment and didn't feel any different to other people. At school I was extremely well accepted by my fellow pupils and teachers, which was the start of a normal life for me. Being active and participating in life has always given me hope and has been my source of strength even at times when I didn't feel great.”

When you travel, you face up to the unknown. And this makes it all the more valuable when you realise that you have mastered the challenges of travelling. Tanja Müller, Divisional Head Culture and Leisure, organises trips for wheelchair users. She knows about her customers’ fears and moments of happiness.