“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago.
The second-best time is now.” – African proverb, quoted by Horst Köhler
Dear friends, supporters, and partners of our foundation,
The year 2025 has deeply touched us in many ways. With the passing of Horst Köhler, we lost a remarkable person and far-sighted politician whose convictions have significantly shaped our foundation. His memory guides us, inspires us, and remains a compass for our work. Exactly 20 years ago, Horst Köhler gave a speech at the “Demographic Change” conference in Berlin—a speech now more relevant than ever. We warmly recommend reading this speech in these pre-Christmas days—in grateful remembrance of his principles and as an encouragement to keep shaping the future together.
Like so many, we look at today’s global situation, social conflicts, and challenges that sometimes seem overwhelming with concern. And yet, this year has shown us how hope grows: quietly at times, sometimes unexpectedly, but always where people stay connected with one another. Bringing hope for a better future to people with rare diseases and their families, opening up perspectives, and paving pathways for research—this is not just our task but the very idea that has driven our foundation’s work from the very beginning.
This year again, we have witnessed how commitment creates impact: in research projects through our initiative Alliance4Rare, which continues to grow and bear fruit; through lively, strengthening networks; and with impulses where small ideas create big change.
All of this is only possible together! This was always a key message from Horst Köhler. All of you—those who stand with us through your time, expertise, donations, ideas, and trust—bring hope and support to people living with rare diseases. Through your commitment and solidarity, you make the future possible. We thank you most sincerely and look forward to your continued support at our side.
We wish you a Christmas season filled with warmth, light, and peaceful moments. May the new year bring us all confidence and the strength to shape the path ahead well.
With best wishes,
Eva Luise Köhler
Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees
Prof. Dr. Annette Grüters-Kieslich
Chairwoman of the Executive Board
