Family Office: First Stop. Open Ear. Safe Anchor.

Anne: We are often the first point of contact for families whose child has been diagnosed with an incurable illness and who are considering a stay with us. During this phase — which is often marked by uncertainty, emotional strain, and many unanswered questions — we want families to feel understood, welcomed, and well supported.

A large part of our work involves planning stays in a way that meets the needs of the child and the entire family.

Katja: Our focus is on creating a sense of safety. Families who come to us are often in a challenging and emotionally overwhelming situation. We want them to feel that they are not alone. We listen, answer questions, provide guidance — and are simply there for them.

Anne: What I appreciate most is the variety in our work and being part of a multidisciplinary team. Each person contributes their own expertise and perspective — and this diversity enables us to support families in very different situations in the best possible way.

Our goal is to strengthen families with a range of support options, also for their everyday lives at home.

Katja: The greatest challenge we see is the steadily decreasing support available at home. Many parents carry the full responsibility for caring for and supporting their seriously ill child on their own – without sufficient relief or reliable help in everyday life. As a result, valuable time to breathe and to share meaningful moments together is often missing.

Anne: I am grateful for every new encounter. When an initial meeting grows into a sense of trust and comfort, I feel content — that is the foundation. Only then can the Sternenbrücke become the supportive shoulder that families can lean on whenever they need it.

My work sharpens my awareness for what truly matters and for the beauty in each day, and it gives me a deep sense of purpose — something I value greatly.

Katja: There are so many special moments — some small, some big. Getting to know new families or accompanying families over many years creates countless memories, not only for them, but also for me. Because in the end, that’s what it’s all about: shared memories.