For the second time, the German Vitiligo Association (Deutscher Vitiligo-Bund e.V.) hosted the Children’s Vitiligo Days at the Fulda Youth Hostel. The event offered a wealth of professional information and a colorful and varied program for the enthusiastic children with parents.
Four volunteers organised an exciting, informative, and diverse program for families with children affected by vitiligo. Childcare was lovingly and energetically provided on-site by volunteer staff. The “Vitiligo Awareness Month” reached another highlight in Germany with the Children’s Vitiligo Days held from June 27 to 29, 2025, in Fulda.
Plenty of Expert Information
Professor Dr. Tanew, a dermatologist from Vienna, and Dr. Ben-Anaya, a dermatologist from Hamburg, gave engaging lectures and took plenty of time to answer all the questions from parents and children. Monika Friedrich, a highly experienced psychologist, worked closely with families on stress management – a key element in the prevention and coping with the illness.
A Varied Program that Delighted All
During a reading by Kirsten Zehler from her book “Giraffenmädchen” (Giraffe Girl), children and adults listened with interest and curiosity. It’s a story about falling and getting back up, about fear and courage – and about love. The story centers around thirteen-year-old Nike and fourteen-year-old Mio. Nike, also known as the Giraffe Girl, has been living with white vitiligo spots all over her body and faces stares and hurtful comments every day. Mio also has vitiligo – and many things in his life go wrong. The book vividly tells how both characters find their own way.
Other highlights included face-painting outings, group games, yoga, a fun water fight in the evening, time to connect with other children and parents, and a wide range of informative content. Grateful and deeply moved families said goodbye with the words: “When will we see each other again?”
I Am Not Alone!
The most beautiful part of the entire weekend was the sparkle in the children’s eyes. Already on Friday evening, during the welcome event, their faces were glowing. One could almost read their thoughts: “I am not alone!” This realization is incredibly valuable and helps children get through difficult times. Kids from families who had already participated in 2023 embraced one another instantly – or rushed to the soccer field. The other children, among nearly 80 participants, quickly found new friends.
Once again, the Children’s Vitiligo Days proved to be a thoroughly successful event.
The organizers thank all participants who helped make this weekend so special! And a huge thank-you goes to all volunteers and to the financial support provided by the AOK Federal Association. Without them, the Children’s Vitiligo Days would not have been possible.
German Vitiligo Association (Deutscher Vitiligo-Bund e.V.)
Frankenring 74
91325 Adelsdorf, Germany
Email: mail@vitiligo-bund.de
Website: www.vitiligo-bund.de and www.kinder.vitiligo-bund.de
Phone: +49 9195 992039
Mobile: +49 151 14070544
Fax: +49 9195 993935
Become a Member and Support The Organization’s Work
https://www.vitiligo-bund.de/ueber-uns/mitglied-werden
