Hellow dear, we are from Belgium but we would like to welcome you on the Island of Vir in Croatia were we have a summer home where I, Erik 40y son of Dolf and Kathleen unfortunatly in a wheelchair, wants to stay as much as possible in good caring company. Because of my high paralisation I need assist for my daily routines when Im there without my parents. What I prefer :) Vir is located 30 km north from Zadar airport/bus station and has a bridge to mainland and a busline to Zadar. In summertime a verry nice place to stay ... Adriatic sea all around, bars, restaurants, concerts and people of all countries come to enjoy this beautifull environment and chill atmosphere.

In my quest for an assistant, the role I envision is much like the dynamic depicted in the movie "Les Intouchables." If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it. The film beautifully portrays the profound bond and mutual growth between Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, and Driss, his caregiver, highlighting not just the assistance provided but the genuine companionship and adventure they share.

As my helper, your responsibilities would include:

Personal Care: Assisting with daily routines such as dressing, bathing, and other personal hygiene tasks.
Mobility Assistance: Helping me transfer from my bed to the toilet, shower, or wheelchair. To make this easier, I have a ceiling lift installed in my room, which facilitates these transfers without any physical effort.
Household Tasks: Performing light housekeeping duties, meal preparation, and ensuring the home environment is comfortable and safe.
Medical Assistance: Managing medications, attending medical appointments with me, and being aware of any health-related needs or emergencies.
Companionship: Engaging in meaningful conversations, participating in activities together, and sometimes simply being present. Your role is not just about the physical tasks but also about forming a supportive and positive relationship.

To give you a better idea of what this role entails, here's a note from my current assistant, Arbnora:

"Hey guys,
I have been Erik's assistant for a year now, and I’d like to share a bit about what it’s like to work with him.
Firstly, you do not need to be a doctor or a nurse to do this job. The most important thing is to care and ensure Erik feels safe in your hands. Positive energy is crucial, and everything else will come naturally as you get into the daily routine.
You will handle various tasks during your stay with Erik, but he will guide you through each one. I will also be here to guide you through all the necessary work, ensuring you feel prepared and confident. We are looking forward to welcoming you for a new experience in your life."

I am a tetraplegic, meaning I have partial paralysis and limited use of my limbs. While I may not be wealthy, I have all I need: a good wheelchair, a handbike, and an Opel Movano with a lift to drive me wherever I need to go. I feel rich in mind and spirit, finding joy and fulfillment in meaningful connections and experiences.

I am looking for someone who is compassionate, patient, and has a good sense of humor. Experience is not as crucial as the willingness to learn and adapt. Just like in "Les Intouchables," the most important qualities are empathy, reliability, and the ability to connect on a personal level.

Cultural Exchange Opportunities

Living and working with me on the beautiful island of Vir provides a unique and enriching cultural exchange experience. Here are some of the opportunities you can expect:

Language Exchange: I am fluent in several languages, including English and Dutch. I am eager to help you improve your language skills, and I look forward to learning from you as well. Sharing our languages is a wonderful way to deepen our connection and mutual understanding.

Cooking and Culinary Traditions: I have a passion for cooking and enjoy preparing traditional Belgian dishes as well as exploring Croatian cuisine. Together, we can share recipes, cook meals, and learn about each other's culinary traditions. I also love gardening, and growing our own vegetables will provide fresh ingredients for our meals, especially during winter.

Nature and Outdoor Activities: The island's natural beauty offers countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether it's enjoying the scenic landscapes, visiting nearby islands, or engaging in my gardening projects, you will experience the tranquility and charm of island life. The microclimate of Vir, with its lush vegetation even in winter, makes it a unique place to connect with nature.

Philosophical and Intellectual Discussions: I enjoy engaging in deep conversations about life, history, and philosophy. Sharing our thoughts and perspectives can lead to enriching discussions and a better understanding of different worldviews.

Personal Growth and Reflection: Living in a serene and picturesque environment like Vir provides the perfect setting for personal reflection and growth. The time you spend here can be a journey of self-discovery and a chance to reconnect with nature and your inner self.

Working with me offers a unique opportunity to live in a beautiful location, experience new adventures, and build a meaningful bond. If you are someone who believes in the power of human connection and is eager to make a difference, I would love to hear from you.