The prestigious Prix Sana, awarded by the Fondation Sana in Bern, recently recognized two remarkable women for their tireless commitment to helping others in challenging life situations. Monika Bodmer from Volketswil and Dina Hediger received the honor during a ceremony in Zurich, each making a significant impact in their respective fields.
The awards highlight individuals who show exceptional initiative and dedication to improving the well-being of vulnerable populations across Switzerland. This year marks the 14th time the Prix Sana has been presented.
Key Takeaways
- Monika Bodmer received the Prix Sana for her work with the ABRI association, using animal-assisted therapy to support traumatized children, the sick, and the elderly.
- Dina Hediger was honored for founding Frühchen & Neokinder Schweiz, an organization providing vital support and information to parents of premature and sick newborns.
- Each recipient received 15,000 Swiss francs and a unique sculpture by artist Gottfried Honegger.
- The Fondation Sana aims to strengthen healthcare and close care gaps through these annual awards.
Monika Bodmer: Healing Through Animal Connections
Monika Bodmer's personal journey fuels her deep commitment to helping others. She experienced a difficult childhood marked by violence, abuse, and neglect. Despite these challenges, she dedicates her life to supporting individuals facing similar struggles.
For a decade, Ms. Bodmer has been a pillar of strength for children and young people with traumatic pasts. Her association, ABRI, based in Volketswil, extends its reach to assist sick, elderly, and terminally ill individuals.
ABRI Association in Action
- ABRI members visit children's homes, facilities for children with cerebral palsy, and nursing homes.
- They also provide comfort to severely ill and dying individuals.
- The association uses a variety of animals, including dogs, turtles, guinea pigs, and horses, in its therapeutic work.
The animals serve as a bridge, helping traumatized children process difficult experiences. They foster feelings of connection and security, allowing children to build trust and gather positive memories. This unique approach provides invaluable emotional support.
"Eventually, it affects us all, and then we are grateful when a hand is there to offer genuine help," Monika Bodmer shared, explaining her motivation.
Ms. Bodmer emphasizes the importance of breaking taboos and openly discussing difficult topics. She believes children often fall through the cracks and need a strong foundation. Sick and dying individuals also require vital support, she noted.
Dina Hediger: A Lifeline for Parents of Premature Babies
Dina Hediger's award acknowledges her crucial work with Frühchen & Neokinder Schweiz, an organization she founded three years ago. Her motivation stems from her own experience as a parent of a child born prematurely.
When children arrive too early or with health complications, parents face a flood of emotions, fears, and questions. Ms. Hediger understands these challenges firsthand. Her organization quickly established itself as a vital resource for affected families.
Understanding Premature Birth
Premature birth, often referred to as 'preterm birth,' occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These infants often require specialized medical care in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The emotional and practical demands on parents can be immense.
Frühchen & Neokinder Schweiz provides comprehensive, expert information and personal accounts from other parents. This centralized resource helps families navigate the complex journey of caring for a premature or sick newborn.
The organization also actively engages in prevention and awareness campaigns. These initiatives cover various aspects of pregnancy and the specific needs of sick or premature children, aiming to improve overall outcomes.
Expanding Support Through Peer Networks
Under Dina Hediger's leadership, more than 80 volunteers now offer peer support in major hospitals across German-speaking Switzerland and Ticino. These volunteers provide bedside support, offering comfort and conversation to parents in need.
The organization's impact extends to research and care projects. Ms. Hediger and her team advocate for the patient perspective, ensuring that the needs of those affected are heard and integrated into treatment plans.
Impact of Frühchen & Neokinder Schweiz
- Over 80 volunteers provide peer support in hospitals.
- The organization offers specialized information and parent experiences.
- They participate in research and care projects to represent patient views.
Dr. med. Christoph Hamann, who nominated Ms. Hediger for the award, praised her efforts. He believes she exemplifies how patient needs can be better addressed within the healthcare system, leading to improved treatments. Dr. Hamann is convinced her dedication will bring about significant long-term changes.
The Prix Sana: Recognizing Extraordinary Commitment
The Fondation Sana, based in Bern, plays a crucial role in strengthening the healthcare system and addressing gaps in care. It achieves this by selectively supporting and honoring individuals, projects, and organizations that make a difference.
The Prix Sana is an annual award, and this year marks its 14th iteration. To date, 37 individuals and organizations have received awards totaling over 400,000 Swiss francs.
"Our laureates this year are committed to the welfare of others out of conviction and thus change lives. With the Prix Sana, we acknowledge their initiative and achievement," stated Rolf Leutert, President of the Foundation Board.
Each of this year's recipients received 15,000 Swiss francs. They also received a unique Prix Sana sculpture created by the renowned Swiss artist Gottfried Honegger. These awards not only provide financial support but also serve as a public acknowledgment of their profound contributions.
Nominations for Prix Sana 2026
The Fondation Sana encourages the public to nominate individuals, groups, or organizations for the Prix Sana 2026. The foundation seeks those who demonstrate initiative and a strong commitment to the health and well-being of others.
Nominations can be submitted until March 31, 2026, through the foundation's website. A draw will award 1,000 Swiss francs among all submissions. The next award ceremony is scheduled for autumn 2026.