On what would have been his seventh birthday, Joel’s family in Pragsdorf, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern decided to momentarily put aside their pain and sadness. Just two days prior, the Neubrandenburg regional court had handed down the verdict for the murder of little Joel by Geri K., sentencing him to seven years and nine months in prison. Despite this, Kathleen and Till K. chose to celebrate their son in their hometown of Pragsdorf.
Family and friends gathered to commemorate Joel’s birthday in Pragsdorf. The whole family, including Joel’s parents, four siblings, Uncle Felix, Aunt Tini, Grandma, and Grandpa came together for the occasion. The meadow near the football field in Pragsdorf, where Joel was tragically killed on September 14, 2023 became the location for the birthday celebration.
The family adorned the table with decorations, garlands, candles, photos and stuffed animals that transformed the place of mourning into a place of celebration. Joel’s parents explained that they chose this location as it was closer to him than anywhere else and wanted to honor his memory there. They hosted a gathering with cakes and sweets that Joel loved ensuring that the celebration was true to his spirit.
Joel’s birth story was shared recalling how he was born a day after his big sister’s birthday due to a planned caesarean section. The parents recounted Joel’s arrival into their lives and their love for their son expressing their sorrow that he could not be there with them on his special day. Despite their grief they hoped that Joel was watching from above and knew that they were celebrating his life in his absence.
Kathleen and Till K.’s decision to celebrate Joel on what would have been his seventh birthday has brought hope back into the lives of those left behind. It serves as a reminder of how much joy can still be found even in moments of great sadness.
