Kulturarv

Vejlefjord Sanatorium

The doctor Christian Saugmann took the initiative for Denmark's first major tuberculosis sanatorium – an institution called Vejlefjord. It was built by Vilhelm Dahlerup and opened in 1900. Saugmann himself had had tuberculosis and was successfully treated in Germany. His chosen location for the sanatorium in the woods of Stouby Skov was well-considered. A stay in the rural surroundings would be conducive to the recovery of the sick. Fresh air, light, a healthy diet and exercise were the only forms of treatment available – apart from a few surgical procedures. There was no medical treatment at a time when tuberculosis was rife in the population. Today, Vejlefjord is a centre for rehabilitation of patients with late brain damage.

Precious life

• Story written by: Inger-Marie Børgesen
• Time / Periode 1900

" "Over the past months I have found myself in, if not a disastrous situation, then buffeted by a dread swell. In my ship, plying the sea of sickness, the water has stood high in all holds; she lies heavy in the sea, pitching terribly. Strangely, I believe she is off the Cape of Good Hope, but there is no symbolic association, since hope…?" These are the words penned by the Faeroese author Jørgen-Frantz Jacobsen, known for his novel Barbara, to his friend, relative, colleague, and countryman, William Heinesen in February 1938, a month before his death at Vejlefjord. His 16-year battle with tuberculosis was over. Jørgen-Frantz Jacobsen was 37 when he died. "

Read more about Vejlefjord Sanatorium at 1001fortællinger.dk