Partner for a Time
Germany, 2021
Christine has lived with paralysis since childhood and navigates the world from her wheelchair. She was once married, endured abuse and domestic violence, and eventually found the strength to leave.
Today, once a month, she welcomes a visit from Thomas Aeffner, a professional sexual assistant. He shares intimacy with her, for money — not only through physical touch, but with attention, respect, and presence.
After nearly fifty years, Christine is beginning to rediscover her own body — on her own terms.
This photo essay offers a glimpse into a form of intimacy that exists outside conventional expectations: a meeting of two people shaped by choice, trust, and a different kind of closeness.
Recipient of the Inclusion Award of the State of Lower Saxony
Thomas arrives early on purpose, so Christine can look forward to him before she comes home. That sense of anticipation is a central part of their meetings.
„It’s not just about sex. It’s about closeness, trust, the connection between us. For the three or four hours of our meetings, I am her partner. That’s what we are: partners for a time.“
„I know it’s only for a limited time, that he will leave again. But during that time, he is there just for me. He doesn’t pretend, he doesn’t lie to me. It’s real.“
„My whole life I`ve been told about my body as a burden. Sex was something that men took from me. Today, he allows me to experience my body as something beautiful. And I want the whole world to know it.”“