Painful news from one of the most renowned voices in the German literary scene: Elke Heidenreich (83) has broken her shoulder and had to be treated in the hospital. The writer and television host shared this news herself on Instagram.
The author reports herself
Accompanying a photo showing an empty hospital corridor, Heidenreich wrote: "June 19: Shit happens." Then the crucial words: "Broken shoulder. And I couldn't wish for a friendlier and better hospital for this than the Dreifaltigkeits in Wesseling." The city is located directly south of Cologne.
Clear words about hospital reform
However, the author doesn't stop at describing her own misfortune and also uses the situation to make a political statement. "Do the people who are currently pushing through the merciless hospital reform have any idea what's actually going on at the local level?" she asks in her post.
Bärbel Schäfer wishes her a speedy recovery
In the comments section, numerous fans are sending their wishes for recovery. Prominent colleagues are also speaking up. Television host Bärbel Schäfer (62) wrote: "Get well soon and good physical therapists, dear Elke." Host Marco Schreyl wishes her a "good and speedy recovery.
Defining figure of the German media landscape
Elke Heidenreich has been one of the most well-known and beloved writers and television hosts in the country for decades. She became known to a wide audience, among other things, through her cult character "Else Stratmann." With the ZDF literary program "Lesen!" which ran from 2003 to 2008, she brought the love of literature closer to audiences. The 83-year-old most recently published the book "Altern." The work, published in 2024, made it to number one on the "Spiegel" bestseller list.
