Frank Zander in hospital due to weakness
"It's a real bummer," says Frank Zander. After all, it's not out of the question that he won't be able to attend his traditional Christmas dinner for the homeless in ten days' time. For now, he has to take care of his own health - the 81-year-old is in hospital.
For the first time in three years, Frank Zander's big Christmas party for the homeless is to take place again this year at the Estrel Hotel in Berlin. However, it is still unclear whether the initiator will actually be able to attend on December 22: Zander is in hospital. This was confirmed by the 81-year-old's son.
"He had been very tired and weak for days and practically fell asleep while eating. As it didn't get any better, we called an ambulance yesterday," said Marcus Zander. "He's in good hands at the hospital. The doctors are turning him upside down and examining him very closely," he added. He said he hoped that his father would be able to attend the party at the Estrel Hotel. "And if not, then we will say hello to him."
Frank Zander himself told "B.Z.": "It's a real bummer. I could think of something better than having to go to the clinic before my Christmas party for the needy and homeless. But there was no other way. I was getting weaker and weaker."
130 helpers, 60 celebrities
The Christmas party is smaller than usual this year. "The wheels have to get rolling again after the break. Around 1600 to 1700 guests can come," said Marcus Zander. At previous celebrations, around 3,000 homeless people were fed and given presents.
Around 130 helpers will be on site again, as well as around 60 celebrities. The Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, is also expected to attend. "But we're not rolling out a red carpet for the celebrities, they should put on an apron and help," emphasized Markus Zander.
Once again, hairdressers will be on hand for the guests, offering free cuts. Vets will look after guests' animals if necessary.
"It's a family celebration"
In the coronavirus years, the Zanders and their helpers were out and about with food trucks. They handed out free meals on the street. "There were around 3,000 people a year," says Marcus Zander.
This year's Christmas festival is being held for the 29th time. "It's a family celebration - my 22-year-old son Elias is also taking part and will be playing the drums," explained Marcus Zander. He is particularly proud that Christmas parties for the homeless are now being organized in many other cities by volunteers, following the Berlin example.
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Despite being hospitalized due to weakness, Frank Zander expresses hopes of attending his Christmas party for the homeless in Berlin, which features 130 helpers and 60 celebrities, including the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner. Despite the smaller guest list compared to previous years, the atmosphere remains family-oriented, with Frank Zander's son Elias participating and playing the drums.
Source: www.ntv.de
