From lethargy to strength: Max fights for his life in a wheelchair”

From lethargy to strength: Max fights for his life in a wheelchair”

What happens when life suddenly takes an unexpected turn? The feature film deals with exactly this explosive question“Max – A Way Back”, which will be shown in cinemas on July 9, 2025. In this gripping story, which tells the story of a 20-year-old young man who ends up in a wheelchair after a serious car accident, the film explores the emotional and physical challenges faced by paraplegics. The main character Max is played by the talented Leonard Proxauf and not only has to deal with his own inner demons, but also with the outside world, which often seems hostile to him.

A central role is played by Dr. Chris Wegner, played by Simon Schwarz. Dr. Wegner, himself a paraplegic, does everything he can to free Max from his lethargy. His approach is clear and direct: he despises self-pity and tries to motivate Max to take matters into his own hands. This dynamic between the two protagonists creates gripping moments and an intense depiction of the reality that many of those affected are confronted with. ARD Mediathek emphasizes that the film not only entertains, but also provides education and understanding in society.

The consequences of traffic accidents

An important aspect that should not be forgotten in this context are the sad statistics: Over 1,000 people in Germany suffer paraplegia every year due to traffic accidents or sports injuries. One in three traffic deaths can be attributed to excessive speed. A tragic story is that of Andrea L., who was hit by a delivery truck as a cyclist in 2014 and has been paralyzed ever since. Since 2018, she has not been receiving simple but intensive therapy at AMBULANTICUM® in Herdecke, a specialized therapy center that focuses on neurological aftercare. She urges drivers to drive carefully and take speed limits seriously. Matrix Health Partner reports on the enormous physical and emotional challenges that those affected have to go through.

The painful neuropathic pain Andrea experiences is not an isolated case. Paraplegics can often have sudden and extreme pain experiences that have a massive impact on their everyday lives. However, Andrea has hope: thanks to Matrix Rhythm Therapy, a treatment method developed by Dr. Developed by Ulrich Randoll in the 1990s, she was able to increase her muscle strength by 30 percent within six months and now has the ability to walk with a walker.

Rehabilitation: A gradual process

An incident that causes a spinal cord injury is usually followed by extensive rehabilitation, which takes place in phases. These phases begin with acute treatment and continue through to long-term care. Data from Der Crosssection show that paraplegic patients spend an average of 150 days in inpatient treatment, while tetraplegic patients even need 200 days. A targeted therapy offering that is tailored to the individual needs of each patient is crucial to maximizing independence in daily life.

Psychological support plays a central role during rehabilitation, as does practical skills training. Relatives are included in these processes and receive training on how to care for and support their loved ones. These steps help those affected to regain their footing both physically and emotionally and to return to social life.

In general, it is a long and arduous path that presents many hurdles, but also produces success stories. The film “Max – A Way Back” is an important reminder that despite all the challenges there is hope and that courage, support and targeted therapy are the key to returning to life.