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

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

in Walpertskirchen have every reason to be happy. Heinz Röhling, a real hero of everyday life, was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit. The 75-year-old has been caring for his wife Maria around the clock in her own home for 18 years. District Administrator Martin Bayerstorfer presented him with this high award, which is the greatest recognition of the common good, and thus praised his years of selfless efforts to make his bedridden.

Maria Röhling, who blindly blindly diagnosed 19 years ago and has been dependent on help since then, is the main source of motivation for Heinz. He has acquired the necessary skills for care and ensures that his wife lacks nothing. Once a week, a physiotherapist comes to visit the two. "A routine was created that is good for both of us," he explains. Despite the challenges that home care brings, the family remains strong: In addition to the 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 their challenges

A look at the background of the care situation shows how important the support of relatives is. According to the website health.bund.de, nursing relatives can also be legally insured if they meet certain requirements. This includes, for example, that the caregiver works less than 30 hours a week and has not yet reached the regular retirement age. Dealing with care not only requires physical use, but also a good knack in the organization to meet the many requirements.

Heinz has had to accept some health setbacks in recent years that did not make 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, it is his wish to maintain Maria for as long as possible. "We always kept together as a family, and it will stay that way as long as I can," he emphasizes.

The financial side of care

A big topic in nursing is often financing. Heinz Röhling experienced this firsthand. The family has prevented financial reasons from using external care or a nursing home. He also criticizes the reduction of the diaper quota by the health insurance company. "Unfortunately, it doesn't make it easier," groans the dutiful husband.

If relatives are dependent on support in the maintenance of care, there are state aid that are often not sufficiently known. The person in need of care for the long -term care insurance is based on a pension entitlement that 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 are informed about such opportunities in order to better master the challenges of care.

The couple married in Walpertskirchen in 1970 and looks back on a long history that is characterized by mutual respect and support. "I cook for Maria, I fulfill the small wishes, whether Kaiserschmarrn or other delicacies," says Heinz Stolz. The family remains closely connected: thanks to simple technologies, such as the phone, Maria can also maintain contact with her friends.

Despite all the adversities, family life has remained harmonious. Heinz is aware that the time could no longer be able to maintain his wife. Until then, the family lives according to the motto: "strong together!"

In the Walpertskirchen region, Heinz Röhling is perceived as a model for dedication and love in nursing. His story may inspire others to find out about the possibilities and support for caring relatives and maybe also help themselves.