Frank Zander, the beloved Schlager star, recently opened up about his significant health challenges and the plans he is laying down for his legacy. The 82-year-old music icon has been grappling with serious health issues, leading to the diagnosis of Hydrocephalus, commonly referred to as "water on the brain." This condition can lead to severe complications, including life-threatening situations if not treated adequately.
Zander’s health troubles came to light during a December 2023 event, where he missed his annual charity Christmas dinner for the homeless, which he typically hosts just days before Christmas. It was during this period when he was fighting against the rare brain condition. "Ich hatte eine merkwürdige Kopfkrankheit. Hydrozephalus hieß die Diagnose," he shared candidly during his appearance on the MDR show "Riverboat," highlighting the uncertainty he felt leading up to his diagnosis, as well as the emotional toll it exacted on both him and his family.
The diagnosis wasn’t straightforward. Zander’s son, Marcus, recounts the moment leading to the life-saving diagnosis: “Mein Vater fühlte sich schlecht. Laufen ging nicht. Er sagte zu mir: Sohn, ich hätte gerne einen Apfelsaft,” signaling something was amiss. Marcus immediately knew something was wrong since his father typically preferred beer. “Ich bin zum Arzt und hab gesagt: Mein Vater trinkt keinen Apfelsaft. Bitte gucken Sie in seinen Kopf,” Marcus insisted, urging doctors to investigate. This eventually led them to discover the excess fluid on his brain, and as Zander puts it today, “Die besten Ärzte hätte ihn wieder 'gerade biegen' wollen.”
Fortunately, after extensive treatment and surgery, Zander stated, "Ich bin noch nicht 100-prozentig da," but expressed relief about his recovery, saying, "Der Kopf ist wieder frei. Ich muss mich nur selbst aufbauen.“ His battle with Hydrocephalus has certainly not been easy, but the experience has spurred Zander to reflect deeply on his life and what legacy he wishes to leave behind.
Despite feeling philosophical about the inevitability of death, he voiced, "Angst vor dem Tod habe ich nicht. Der gehört zum Leben dazu." The truth is, like many facing life’s twilight, he is more concerned with losing his memories rather than fearing death itself. This worrying contemplation urged Zander to think more critically about his legacy and what will happen when he can no longer contribute to his causes.
With this newfound perspective, he has established the Frank-Zander-Stiftung, collaborating with the charity organization Caritas. The foundation is illuminated by his mantra: “Abgeben ist wichtig! Nicht nur an sich, sondern auch an andere denken!” This initiative is aimed at ensuring the social efforts he holds dear will not dwindle after his passing. When speaking of this decision, Zander noted, "Die Stiftung soll unsere sozialen Bemühungen dauerhaft sichtbar machen. Ich werde ja nicht für immer leben, aber die Idee soll ewig erhalten bleiben.”
Each year, just before Christmas, Zander hosts his substantial charity event at the Hotel Estrel, where he provides meals to thousands of Berlin's less fortunate citizens. “Ich bin froh, dass es wieder heile ist,” Marcus noted during one of the shows since his father has taken steps to prepare for this year’s festive charity event. The fact Zander was unable to host last year due to health problems has motivated him even more to continue this tradition of giving back. After all, the holidays are always especially poignant for those who are vulnerable.
Reflecting on his life, Zander now emphasizes the importance of living fully and with intention. “Ich bereue kaum etwas im Leben. Ich bereue nur, zu viel kostbare Lebenszeit mit unnützen Streitereien und Ärgernissen verplempert zu haben,” he concluded. It's this shift—shifting focus from concerns about passing to considering how he can make impactful contributions now—that has shaped his current outlook.
Indeed, as Frank Zander continues to navigate the trials of aging and health, he reminds us all of the importance of legacy, kindness, and the intrinsic human desire to connect and care for others. His story serves as both inspiration and gentle reminder to reflect on what really matters most.
