The loss and sadness in Pragsdorf, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are still profound, but on what would have been his seventh birthday, Joel’s family wanted to momentarily set aside their pain and sorrow. 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. decided 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, transforming the place of mourning into a place of celebration. Joel’s parents explained that they chose this location to be closer to him than anywhere else, wanting to honor his memory in the location where he spent his last moments. They hosted a gathering with cakes and sweets that Joel loved, ensuring the celebration was in line with 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 and their love for their son, expressing their sorrow that he could not be there to celebrate 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.