Tobias' month in Lindlar 2025 - intensiv speech therapy

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It was quite an experience 

taking Tobias to Lindlar

Tyler took the train with Tobias to Cologne, while I drove the car with all our luggage, everything needed for Tobias’s care, some rehab equipment, and more. The car was packed — no space left for Tyler and Tobias.

I also felt it was important to bring both wheelchairs, since Lindlar is nestled in a beautiful valley surrounded by fields and woods, but with many steep hills, even in the tiny village.

My back isn’t in great shape, and I didn’t want to risk anything. Pushing a wheelchair uphill confirmed that it was the right decision to bring both. Tyler and I were nervous about the trip. How would Tobias do? Would he be in pain? We're still scared and somewhat traumatized from the first two years, when Tobias often had storming episodes and severe pain.

He's shown us that his body has become more stable and stronger — but we still carry hesitation.

And he did great. So did Tyler.
It took me almost ten hours by car due to traffic and a few power naps I needed along the way. I must have been more exhausted than I realized from the weeks leading up to the trip. We always underestimate the work it takes just to prepare for travel —I’m sure many of you can relate.

We stayed three days in Cologne for fun. One day, we visited Aachen — it was wonderful. The cathedral was stunning, our lunch delicious, and the dessert lecker. Tyler and I enjoyed one evening at a Therme (spa), with a sauna and a very warm pool. The hotel had a large wellness area for locals and guests — it was a real treat.

One night, while out for dinner, we overheard a conversation in Spanish. Tobias got excited. After both our meals, we spoke with the couple outside and learned they were from Santiago, Chile — Tobias’s mission area! Though they now live in Cologne, they were thrilled to speak with him. Tobias was so happy to speak his favorite language again.

We checked in to the rehab center on Wednesday. Our meeting with the therapist went well. We met the group — other patients and their caregivers or partners. It was a good start.

Therapies began the next day: 5 to 6 sessions daily, including computer-based cognitive training. Tobias had his own desk and worked independently.
All the therapies were fantastic. What stood out was the intensity and the interdisciplinary teamwork — that’s what made the difference.

We only observed micro steps — but for us, those are big steps in the direction we hope Tobias will go. It’s all about his independence and freedom. He’s doing great, and we will take every single micro step forward with gratitude.

Tobias and I went on many walks, ate lots of spaghetti ice cream, and picked up fresh berries from the store.
What really touched me — and I believe Tobias noticed it too — was the atmosphere of respect and appreciation. Everyone was seen as a person trying their best. We met people who were physically stronger than Tobias but who struggled with aphasia — a very complex and difficult condition. Communication was a real challenge.

Tobias, at least, can express himself. Once again, we were reminded: every disability is different, and rarely does it come alone. After a brain injury, one issue often leads to others.

Back to Lindlar: Tyler visited us on Mother’s Day — the best gift I could have asked for. I really needed him, even if it was just for one night. I love my husband — seven hours one way! Hallelujah.

Four weeks were enough for me. I believe Tobias enjoyed the structure and routine, but his brain was clearly tired by the end.

Now we rest and return to our normal therapy rhythm. My current focus is on the cognitive aspects of his recovery.
We’ve entered a new phase —I’ll write more about that another time.

By the way, we liked Lindlar so much, we booked another intensive therapy block for January.
I hope it works out. Cross your fingers for Tobias.

Thank you for following our journey.
You are wonderful, and your support means so much.

Promise me this:
Never give up.

Life can be  hard — but still, so full of beauty Love, The Dunn Family