Regain joy in life: The unique Phoenix Oasis in Freising

Regain joy in life: The unique Phoenix Oasis in Freising

In Freising, the “Phoenix Oasis” opened its doors at the beginning of June for people looking for support after a stroke. This unique meeting place not only offers those in need of help space for exchange, but also many opportunities for active leisure activities. Here Shirin also finds a new courage to live, who is struggling with paralysis in the left side of her body after two strokes on February 3, 2022. If you look at their careers, it becomes clear: this oasis is important for their quality of life.

Structured leisure activities such as walks, crafts and cooking together are on the program in the “Phoenix Oasis”. Rest breaks and relaxation are also planned after lunch. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are also planned in the in-house therapy room to help guests regain their abilities. With start-up funding of 360,000 euros provided by the Bavarian Ministry of Health and Care, the oasis has found a secure financial basis for the next five years. The facility is ideally housed in a 160 square meter ground floor with a garden.
Süddeutsche reports that...

The heart of the oasis

Elisabeth Wust, the director of the facility, wants to convey joy of life to her guests. The oasis should not only be a place for therapy, but also a meeting place where people support and motivate each other. Inge Thaler, the chairwoman of the “Phoenix” association, fought for a long time to open the meeting place. She founded a self-help group in 2001 before launching the “Phoenix Freising” association in 2004, which now has 176 members. This community impressively shows how important cohesion and support are for those affected.

As the numbers show, support after a stroke is more than necessary. Every year, around 270,000 people in Germany suffer a stroke, the most common reason for acquired disabilities in adulthood. Around 60% of patients are dependent on therapy or care one year after the stroke. Therefore, commitment to the “Phoenix Oasis” is essential for the integration and rehabilitation of those affected.

Self-help groups as additional support

But there are not only dedicated meeting places in Freising. Self-help groups operate in various cities to offer support to people after a stroke. One example is the self-help group “New Ways”, which is aimed particularly at those affected up to the age of 55. This group meets monthly at the Stroke Service Point and offers a space for discussion on topics such as exhaustion and emotional instability. Cooking, cinema and yoga are also on the program there. Registrations are required before the first visit.
Stroke Alliance reports that...

There are also numerous self-help groups in Austria that help those affected and their relatives. From Burgenland to Tyrol and Vienna, the offers are diverse. A visit to the umbrella associations' websites provides information about the regional groups and their contact options.
Gesundheit.gv.at reports that…

The “Phoenix Oasis” not only contributes to regaining quality of life, but is also an important place of cohesion. People like Shirin not only find help here, but also a community that overcomes their challenges together. A #NewChapter for self-help in Freising and beyond.