WeCanDays 2023
Kinderkrebs Schweiz organised its first joint weekend for survivors from north-western Switzerland and French-speaking Switzerland. There was a little excitement in the air about how such an adventure with two languages would turn out, and not just among the organisers. However, all concerns vanished into thin air as soon as everyone arrived.
Twenty-one survivors from Boden to Lake Geneva gathered in Kandersteg to exchange ideas, meet like-minded people, take a break from everyday life and gain new inspiration. Under the motto ‘Finding balance together’, there were two taster workshops, one in German and one in French. Monica and Ivo showed us what is possible with conscious breathing and movement through qigong and tai chi. On Sunday, Anabelle and Lorena shared tips and tricks for mindfulness.
"Thank you so much for this weekend. I was able to leave everyday life and the children behind for a few moments and use the time for myself and to talk to other survivors."
The weather was kind to us and we were able to go up to Lake Oeschinen on Saturday. Some took a sporty approach and walked up from the valley, while others took the cable car or mountain taxi from the mountain station or enjoyed a leisurely stroll from there. What really mattered was not the altitude, but that everyone could decide at their own pace and according to how they felt on the day what was right for them and what felt good.
This was the atmosphere throughout the entire weekend. There was no need to explain oneself; everyone was respected within the group and supported when needed. A spontaneous magic show on Friday evening further lightened the mood. Deliberately scheduled breaks offered another opportunity to relax in the hotel spa or chat with other participants over coffee and a stroll.
"I found it amazing that we understood each other very well despite the language barrier. It was definitely an enrichment and not a limitation."
For me as the organiser, this weekend was both enlightening and enjoyable. I am very grateful to all the participants who made the journey to Kandersteg and embraced the weekend with complete confidence. After all, it is always the people and their stories that make our events unforgettable. My sincere thanks also go to the organising committee with Corinne, Robin, Ferdinand and Claude, who provided us with tremendous support both in the planning stage and on site, and last but not least to all the donors and sponsors who made this weekend possible.
In summary, it was a wonderful, enriching few days, and one thing is already certain: WeCanDays will be back again in 2024.
"Now that I have a face to go with the department, it will certainly be easier for me to send an email or a quick text message when necessary."