Sometimes, a message arrives in our inbox that stays with us long after we've read it.
Recently, we received such a message from Helma, a 61-year-old woman from the Netherlands with an extraordinary story, an inspiring outlook on life, and one very special dream: to experience the magic of Lapland.
Living Life to the Fullest
Helma lives with several serious, incurable medical conditions. Her health presents challenges every single day, but one thing remains unchanged: her determination to enjoy life.
As she beautifully described it in her message:
"I'm living on borrowed time. Quality time!"
Rather than focusing on what she can no longer do, Helma chooses to embrace the possibilities that remain. For years, she has dreamed of travelling to the far north. She has read countless books about Lapland, imagining its endless snowy landscapes, frozen lakes, magnificent wildlife and magical Northern Lights. Now, she has decided that the time has come to stop dreaming and start experiencing.
A Dream Shared with Her Loved Ones
In February 2027, Helma will embark on an unforgettable expedition to Lapland. By her side will be her husband Eddy, her partner of 45 years, and Tjarro, her loyal assistance dog, who plays a vital role in detecting and alerting her to epileptic seizures. Although Eddy isn't particularly fond of cold weather, he knows just how much this journey means to his wife. Together, they will travel in their winter-ready campervan, allowing Helma to bring her medication and enjoy the flexibility she needs throughout the journey.
And Helma certainly isn't planning to spend the entire trip indoors!
Her wish list includes husky sledding, ice fishing, snowshoe hiking, spotting reindeer and moose, meeting the Sámi people and, of course, witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights. But above all, she hopes to experience something that is becoming increasingly rare in everyday life.
Peace. Space. Silence. And the extraordinary beauty of untouched nature.
Facing the Arctic Cold
Of course, a winter expedition to Lapland comes with its challenges. Temperatures can drop as low as -40°C, making staying warm an essential part of preparing for the adventure. For Helma, this is particularly important. Due to her medical conditions, she frequently experiences extremely cold hands and feet, even during relatively mild Dutch winters. As she began preparing for the expedition, she wondered how she would manage the Arctic temperatures while enjoying all the outdoor activities she had been dreaming about.
During her search for a solution, she discovered BERTSCHAT® and reached out to share her story. Her request was simple and heartfelt: could we perhaps help her and Eddy stay warm during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure?
A Little Warmth for a Very Special Journey
Helma's story touched us deeply.
Not because of the challenges she faces, but because of the remarkable positivity, humour and determination with which she approaches life. We were therefore delighted to contribute to their adventure with a package of BERTSCHAT® heated gloves and heated socks, helping Helma and Eddy prepare for the cold conditions awaiting them in Lapland. Our heated gloves and socks are designed to provide warmth and comfort in cold environments, allowing people to enjoy outdoor activities even when temperatures drop.
For Helma and Eddy, we hope they will make a real difference as they explore the breathtaking winter landscapes of Lapland and experience everything this extraordinary destination has to offer. Shortly afterwards, we received a lovely photograph of Helma, Eddy and Tjarro, together with a heartfelt message:
"Oh wow, we won't have cold hands and feet in Lapland anymore!"
A wonderful message to receive, and one that made us even more excited to follow their upcoming adventure.
Helma and Eddy, together with their loyal assistance dog Tjarro
Some Things Matter More Than Others
What makes Helma's story so special isn't simply the destination. It's the reason behind the journey. After 45 years together, Helma and Eddy are choosing to create new memories, discover new places and make the most of their time together. Despite everything life has thrown her way, Helma continues to look forward with curiosity, courage and enthusiasm. One sentence from her original message perfectly captures her philosophy:
"You have to create your own moments of happiness in life."
A beautiful sentiment that reminds us that happiness doesn't always come to us. Sometimes, we have to create it ourselves. And that is exactly what Helma is doing.
Lapland 2027: Let the Adventure Begin!
Dear Helma, Eddy and Tjarro,
We wish you a truly unforgettable journey through the magical landscapes of Lapland.
May you witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, discover the beauty of the Arctic wilderness and return home with countless wonderful memories.
Most importantly, we hope you enjoy every moment together.
We are delighted that our heated gloves and socks can help keep you warm and comfortable throughout this special adventure.
Because sometimes, warmth is about so much more than temperature.
With warm wishes,
The BERTSCHAT® Team 🧡
