Heinz Röhling: A nursing hero honored with the Federal Cross of Merit!

Heinz Röhling: A nursing hero honored with the Federal Cross of Merit!

In Walpertskirchen you have every reason to be happy. Heinz Röhling, a true everyday hero, was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit. The 75-year-old has been caring for his wife Maria around the clock in their own home for 18 years. District Administrator Martin Bayerstorfer presented him with this high award, which is considered the greatest recognition of services to the common good, and in doing so acknowledged his years of selfless efforts to help his bedridden wife.

Maria Röhling, who became blind 19 years ago after being diagnosed with cancer and has been dependent on help ever since, is the main source of motivation for Heinz. He has acquired the necessary care skills himself and ensures that his wife lacks nothing. A physiotherapist visits once a week to support them both. “A routine has emerged that is good for both of us,” he explains. Despite the challenges that home care brings, the family remains strong: In addition to their two daughters, the couple also has four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who support the care, especially since Heinz suffered a stroke in 2023.

Care and its challenges

A look at the background of the care situation shows how important support from relatives is. According to the website gesundheit.bund.de, caring relatives can also have statutory pension insurance if they meet certain requirements. This includes, for example, that the carer works less than 30 hours per week and has not yet reached normal retirement age. Dealing with care requires not only physical effort, but also a good hand in organization in order to meet the many requirements.

Heinz has suffered some health setbacks in recent years that have not made care easier. After his hip surgery in 2014 and the stroke, he was forced to hand over some of the tasks to his daughters and a friend of his grandson. Nevertheless, his wish is to care for Maria himself for as long as possible. “We have always stuck together as a family and will stay that way as long as I can,” he emphasizes.

The financial side of care

A big issue in nursing is often financing. Heinz Röhling experienced this firsthand. Financial reasons prevented the family from seeking outside care or a nursing home. He also criticizes the health insurance company's reduction in diaper quotas. “Unfortunately that doesn’t make it any easier,” groans the dutiful husband.

If relatives are dependent on support with the care required, there is government help that is often not sufficiently known. A pension entitlement is built up through the long-term care insurance of the person in need of care, which can later lead to a small monthly pension increase - a point that is also relevant for Heinz and his family. It would be helpful if more people were informed about such options in order to better overcome the challenges of care.

The couple married in Walpertskirchen in 1970 and look back on a long history together that is characterized by mutual respect and support. “I cook for Maria and fulfill her little wishes, whether it’s Kaiserschmarrn or other delicacies,” says Heinz proudly. The family remains close: thanks to simple technologies such as the telephone, Maria can also maintain contact with her friends.

Despite all the adversities, family life has remained harmonious. Heinz is aware that the time may come when he will no longer be able to care for his wife. But until then, the family lives by the motto: “Strong together!”

In the Walpertskirchen region, Heinz Röhling is seen as a role model for dedication and love in nursing. May his story inspire others to find out about the options and support for caring relatives and perhaps to help themselves.