15 years of hope: Anniversary for children with cancer in Maria Wörth!

15 years of hope: Anniversary for children with cancer in Maria Wörth!

On August 30, 2025, Maria Wörth celebrated a very special anniversary: ​​15 years of vacation for families with children with cancer. This initiative, which was launched in close cooperation with the Children's Cancer Aid in Vienna, Lower Austria and Burgenland, offers affected families a much-needed break from the stressful everyday lives. In the idyllic ambience of Lake Wörthersee, guests can escape their worries for a short time.

The celebrations took place in the Café Bistro Bottle Mail and were rich in emotions. The guests of honor included Mayor Markus Perdacher and tourism director Claudia Bleier. René Mulle, chairman of the children's cancer charity, emphasized the immense importance of these breaks, which for many families represent a real respite from the stressful everyday treatment routine. Max Pokorny, as the initiator of the campaign and hotelier, was grateful for the ongoing tradition and support from numerous local partners.

Honors and surprises

The community did not miss the opportunity to thank the region's committed hosts with certificates of honor. To express appreciation for their support, there were gifts such as a caricature from the children's cancer charity and a miniature of the Hotel Seefels, made from Lego bricks, for Max Pokorny. To put a smile on the little guests' faces, Clown Wuascht provided entertainment, while the Message in a Bottle team served culinary delicacies.

The work of the Vienna Children's Cancer Aid, which was founded in 1986 by affected parents, also includes mobile services such as nursing services and psychosocial offers. These are essential to support families during difficult times. A cancer diagnosis presents enormous challenges for children and parents, including a variety of emotional and physical stress.

Support and resilience

The difficult situation in which families often find themselves is compounded by the need to give up their usual routine. Children lose contact with friends, hobbies and sports, which puts immense emotional strain on them. It is particularly important to talk openly about the illness in order to allay fears and uncertainties. Explanations about the illness should be conveyed clearly and lovingly to reassure children and involve them in the treatment process. This is crucial because it is the only way to maintain normality in the lives of the children affected.

Support from craftsmen and donors is crucial for the holiday initiative in Maria Wörth. For example, the Urmel House, an additional retreat, was completely rebuilt. All interior design was wheelchair accessible to ensure that all family members feel comfortable during their stay. An overgrown garden has been lovingly redesigned to create inviting outdoor spaces. Such changes help to ensure that the affected families can experience a true oasis of well-being during their stay.

Around 2,000 children in Germany get cancer every year, and fortunately four out of five children now have a good chance of recovery. The support from organizations such as Children's Cancer Aid and the initiatives in Maria Wörth not only offer the affected families a break, but also hope and community in difficult times.