Maria Bärwinkel: The courage to sterilize and the fight for acceptance!

Maria Bärwinkel: The courage to sterilize and the fight for acceptance!

In an age in which individual decisions are increasingly valued, Maria Bärwinkel from Torgau took a clear step: She had herself sterilized at the age of 36 in order to give her life her own direction without the pressure of having children. In an interview with LVZ, she talks about the challenges and reactions she experiences along the way. Although she feels completely comfortable with her decision, she is often confronted with a lack of understanding from those around her. Women who express no desire to have children are often not taken seriously and have to deal with derogatory comments.

Maria Bärwinkel, who at 37 is one of the few women who actively question their desire to have children and is open to sterilization, describes how hurtful such reactions can be. After moving to Schwerin, she finally found a gynecologist who was respectful of her decision. “There are many reasons why women don’t want children and these should be taken seriously,” she emphasizes – an appeal for greater acceptance and understanding in society.

A life without children

In the interview it is clear that Maria never doubted her decision. Sterilization was a liberation for them. A year later, she feels satisfied and wants to encourage other women who have similar thoughts. It is important for them that there are platforms where women can get advice. She therefore recommends the “Self-determined Sterile” association as a contact point to exchange experiences and advice.

Maria also highlighted the emotional challenges that come with this decision. Despite her strong convictions, other people's reactions were often painful. She therefore has a strong desire for society to become more open to the diversity of lifestyles. “We should respect each other more and understand why women choose not to have children,” she says forcefully.

A winter campaign for animals

In a completely different but equally important matter, the organization Patitas Laguneras A.C. launched a large-scale campaign to help animals. Under the motto “Abriga una patita este invierno,” which aims to collect blankets, sweaters and food for rescued dogs in Torreón, the community is encouraged to actively participate. Every year many of these animals struggle to survive in the winter and urgently need support.

The campaign runs throughout the winter season and accepts donations at several locations. Citizens of Torreón are invited to drop off their donated items at collection points or share the initiative on social media. Interested supporters can request further information and help directly by calling 871-582-3834.

Celebrity Stories – by Michael Douglas

Another highlight from the world of stars is the news about Michael Douglas, who announced his semi-professional life this year. The famous actor and producer, known for his roles in films such as “Wall Street” and “Romancing the Stone”, has chosen to prioritize family and personal interests. Recognized for his distinguished career and commitment to humanitarian work, Douglas has been a defining figure in Hollywood for some time.

It is remarkable how such individual decisions, whether regarding the desire to have children or dealing with a career, reflect the everyday pulse of society. Maria Bärwinkel fights for acceptance, while the campaign in Torreón promotes empathy for animals - both important building blocks for respectful coexistence.