Meerleben e.V.: Surf therapy for children with cancer on Sylt

A diagnosis of cancer or other serious illnesses fundamentally changes the life of a child and their family. For the children affected, it is not just about the physical fight against the disease, but also about the emotional and social challenges that such a diagnosis brings with it. The non-profit association Meerleben e.V. has set itself the task of helping these children and young people with special therapy programs, such as the Surf therapyto give back a bit of joie de vivre and self-confidence. Thanks to the generous support of the WIRTH Foundation the association can now purchase additional equipment such as surfboards and wetsuits, enabling even more children to take part in these unique therapies.

Moving experiences: The work of Meerleben e.V.

Meerleben e.V. is a non-profit association that helps children and young people on the island of Sylt who have cancer or are struggling with other physical, mental or social impairments. Through sports therapy and experiential education programs, in particular the Surf therapyThe dedicated team offers the children an opportunity to regain strength, build self-confidence and recover from the daily challenges of their illness.

The Surf therapy is at the heart of the work of Meerleben e.V. It combines the healing powers of the sea with physical activity and creates an environment in which children can overcome their limits and experience a sense of freedom and self-determination. Surfing not only strengthens the body, but also has a positive effect on the psyche. For many children, it is the first time since their illness that they have been able to feel free and carefree.

The support of the WIRTH Foundation

Thanks to the generous support of the WIRTH Foundation Meerleben e.V. can now expand its urgently needed equipment. The donation enables the purchase of additional surfboards and wetsuitsthat allow children and young people to surf safely and comfortably even in colder months. Warm equipment in particular is crucial to enable children to participate in surf therapy all year round without being exposed to the weather conditions.

"We are incredibly grateful to the WIRTH Foundation for their support," says a spokesperson for Meerleben e.V. "Thanks to this donation, we can accompany more children on their journey and give them a new zest for life through surfing and other creative activities."

Why surf therapy is so effective

Surf therapy not only offers children a physical challenge, but also the opportunity to overcome their fears and gain new self-confidence. The contact with the water and the feeling of mastering the waves give the children a deep sense of freedom and achievement. These positive experiences help them to recover from the psychological strain of their illness and to find new hope.

Furthermore, surf therapy is part of a comprehensive concept of sports therapy and creative activities embedded. In addition to surfing, there are many other activities at Meerleben e.V. that help the children to process their feelings and strengthen their motor skills. The aim is to provide the children with holistic support and help them on their way back into life in the long term.

A strong team of volunteers

The heart of Meerleben e.V. is the volunteer teamwho look after the children with great commitment and passion. All helpers

are specially trained and know how to respond to the special needs of children and young people. They not only accompany the children during surf therapy, but also support them in difficult moments and create an atmosphere of security and trust.

How you can support Meerleben e.V.

Meerleben e.V. makes an invaluable contribution to supporting sick children and their families. However, this valuable work would not be possible without donations. If you would also like to support the work of the association, you can do so in various ways:

• Financial donations: Every contribution helps to maintain and expand the services offered by Meerleben e.V. With your donation, you enable the association to help even more children.

• Voluntary commitment: Anyone who would like to get actively involved can become part of the volunteer team and support the children on site.

• Donations in kind: The association is also happy to receive donations in kind, such as sports equipment needed for therapy.

Further information about the work of Meerleben e.V. and how you can help can be found on the Website of the association.

Frequently asked questions

1. what is surf therapy?
Surf therapy is a form of sports therapy treatment in which sick children experience physical activity and emotional support through surfing. It helps the children to overcome their fears and gain self-confidence.

2. how does the WIRTH-Stiftung Meerleben e.V. provide support?
The WIRTH Foundation has made a donation that will enable Meerleben e.V. to purchase more surfboards and wetsuits. This equipment will enable more children to take part in surf therapy.

3. who can take part in the Meerleben e.V. offers?
Meerleben e.V. is aimed at children and young people who are suffering from cancer or other serious illnesses or are struggling with psychological and social impairments. The association supports the children on their way back to life.

4. how can I support Meerleben e.V.?
You can support the association through financial donations, voluntary work or donations in kind. Every form of help contributes to the further expansion of therapy services.

5. what other services are available in addition to surf therapy?
Meerleben e.V. also offers other sports therapy and creative activities that help the children to strengthen their motor and emotional skills. These offers are part of a holistic concept to support the children.