Kornelia Spahn was a teacher for 33 years. Art and culture, especially painting, are her passion. She has one son. Kornelia is an open, passionate, and profound person who loves books, music, and movies. She used to be athletic and cheerful. Then, over two years ago, she fell ill with ME/CFS. In the summer of 2022, Kornelia Spahn suffered a severe crash, i.e., a deterioration in her condition after overexertion. Since then, she has been unable to leave her apartment. Kornelia Spahn suffers from severe pain and exhaustion, so that sometimes, as she puts it, she feels like she is disintegrating.
In a long odyssey, she sought medical care and suffered as a result of
I try not to lose my faith in life.
– Kornelia Spahn
Mistreatments led to repeated setbacks. In July 2024, she was forced into retirement due to her illness. Kornelia’s sister, Simone Bräu, is a doctor and supports her in every way possible. Her parents take care of her basic daily needs such as food and shopping.
“I try to stay positive and not lose my faith in life,” says Kornelia. But she is also tired of always having to fight. The love of her family and friends helps her learn to cope with her illness.
Kornelia Spahn keeps trying to pursue her great passion, painting. On good days, she can sit and paint for a few minutes, but on most days she has to lie down on the canvas and work very slowly. Kornelia is in a lot of pain, and often when she tries to paint, she cries because her body is letting her down. Her sister Simone is a doctor and a rock for Kornelia. She visits her every day and makes sure Kornelia gets what she needs. Simone also gives Kornelia regular infusions, which help her and make her suffering a little more bearable.
