From Setbacks to Summits – A True Example of Resilience and Renewed Joy
Client Story: Anette, 60 – Back to the Rosengarten
At 60, Anette proves that a sense of adventure has no expiration date. Her dream was clear: to complete the legendary Rosengarten and Schlern circuit in South Tyrol—a multi-day trek through the heart of the Dolomites, famous for their dramatic peaks, wide alpine meadows, and sunsets that bathe the mountains in glowing pink. The route covers up to 60 kilometers and 3,000 meters of elevation, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a real sense of achievement for anyone who completes it.
But Anette had to postpone this adventure twice: first because of the pandemic, then again when a stubborn knee effusion made even everyday activities difficult—let alone mountain hiking.
In our first session together, Anette described her knee as a “balloon”—painful, swollen, and unpredictable. She’d tried all sorts of things: physiotherapy, orthopedics, chiropractic care, and—never giving up, bravely moving forward to make her dream come true. Some approaches helped for a while, but the problem kept coming back, and her trust in her own body suffered. The uncertainty forced her to cancel the Rosengarten hike a second time—costing not just money and nerves, but also a bit of her freedom.
When we met, Anette’s goal was simple: she wanted to get back to the mountains with her best friend and enjoy an active life again. Day-to-day life was manageable, but the dream of the Rosengarten and Schlern trek still felt out of reach. In our sessions, we focused on tuning into the body’s signals—not just pushing through, but using targeted Rolfing® Structural Integration and ScarWork™ techniques to gradually regain mobility and rebuild confidence.
Amazingly, after just three sessions, everything changed. Anette could move her knee again, almost the full range of motion had returned, and she felt ready to finally tackle her long-postponed adventure. In July 2025, she and her friend completed the Rosengarten and Schlern circuit—a challenge that’s impressive at any age.
But for Anette, it wasn’t just about the physical achievement. More important was regaining trust in her body and rediscovering the joy of movement. She sums it up best herself:
“I’m much more mobile, can bend and put weight on my knee almost like before. And I managed 3,000 meters of elevation and 60 km with a 12-kg backpack—at 60! I had no knee issues at all, just the usual muscle soreness afterwards.”
Emotionally, Anette also gained new confidence and optimism. She’s always been a positive person, but this experience showed her that—with patience and the right support—even later in life, new doors can open.
“Sometimes you have to wait until the right door opens. And when it does, everything gets better. Just give it a try—the sessions weren’t just helpful, but also pleasant and very relaxing.”
What’s Possible
It’s important to mention: Rolfing® and ScarWork™ aren’t magic fixes. Progress comes from working together, listening to your own body, and respecting each person’s unique journey. Anette’s story shows what’s possible when professional support meets personal motivation and patience—at any age.
Her story is proof that big goals don’t have an expiry date. Sometimes, all you need is the right support to get back on your path—literally.
Did this story inspire you? Do you have a goal you’d like to reach again? Feel free to get in touch—we’ll explore together what’s possible for you.
Photos shared with kind permission of Anette. Thank you for allowing us to share your inspiring journey!
About the author:
Tobias Elliott-Walter is a certified Rolfer® (European Rolfing® Association, Munich) and ScarWork™ practitioner for integrative scar work. His expertise is based on practical experience and continuous training in fascia work. As a practicing therapist in Saarbrücken, he combines scientific knowledge with practical application.
His qualifications include:
- Certified Rolfer® (European Rolfing® Association, Munich)
- ScarWork™ practitioner for integrative scar work
- Certified Sivananda Yoga Teacher (Bahamas Ashram, 2018)
- Alternative practitioner in training
His holistic approach is based on the conviction that physical and mental well-being are inextricably linked. Thanks to his international professional experience, he offers treatments in both German and English.
Professional qualifications
- All trademarks mentioned remain the property of their respective owners
Professional standards All medical and scientific statements are based on current research and professional experience. As an alternative practitioner in training, I work according to the strict guidelines of the German Alternative Practitioners Act.
Important note:
This article is for information purposes only and does not replace medical advice. The information shared here is based on current scientific research and practical experience. If you have any health complaints, please consult your doctor or therapist.
© 2025 Tobias Elliott-Walter. All rights reserved.
