Andreas from Bissingen: A life full of music and community

Andreas from Bissingen: A life full of music and community

Andreas Karakas, a 24-year-old young man, lives in a small town in Swabia and has been part of the Höfer family since he was two years old. This gave him a loving home in which he feels comfortable and gets along well. His host mother Cornelie Höfer has proven to be a great support, while Rita Kappes from Diakonie Stetten comes by once a month to discuss important topics and applications with the family. According to a report by Teckbote Andreas loves to be active - so he helps by unloading the dishwasher and setting the table for dinner.

Andreas was born prematurely at 28 weeks and spent his first years in the Olga Hospital. His mother was unable to care for him due to her own limitations, but his father took good care of him. Cornelie and her late husband also decided to bring two more children with disabilities into their home and thereby show their commitment to the well-being of people in difficult life situations.

Life in the host family

Andreas has found a real home in the Höfer family, which gives him the support he needs in everyday life. Andreas receives care and help according to his needs from assisted living in families at Diakonie Stetten. Host families like the Höfers can rely on information and support in various areas of life. In this way, questions about social law, help with dealings with authorities or just everyday support can be dealt with independently by qualified specialists from the BWF (Accompanied Living in Families). Further details can be found on the website Diakonie Stetten.

Andreas has a strong need for independence and freedom of choice. The youth welfare office was responsible for him until he was 18, but since then Supported Living in Families has been responsible for him. It allows him to experience bright moments and make his own decisions - such as independent trips to the library or bakery.

The closer environment

The support of Rita Kappes is of great importance to Andreas. She regularly picks him up from the “Leben Inclusive” workshop in Oberboihingen, where he makes assembly parts for garage doors. Music also plays an essential role in Andreas’ life. He loves the sounds of his Vee harp, listening to music, and using the computer to relax and stabilize himself. The fact that he occasionally has epileptic seizures that are triggered by excitement or joy is part of his everyday life - but he still overcomes these challenges.

Diakonie Stetten offers a valuable service for people with disabilities, like Andreas, by providing host families who are willing not only to create space, but also to have a genuine interest and time in living together with these people. This includes not only children or young people, but also adults who want to live in a family. Those interested can find further information on the website John Diaconia read up.

Families, couples or individuals who can imagine acting as a host family for people with disabilities are warmly invited to find out about the requirements. A non-binding get-to-know-you appointment allows you to check the chemistry and decide whether a long-term collaboration is possible. This holistic support contributes to social integration and a fulfilling life.