The underage Jew Kurt Bergheimer fled to Switzerland in 1942 to escape the Nazis. What was intended as a temporary refuge became a place for a new beginning. Kurt formed numerous relationships on various levels that challenged him and confronted him with difficulties, but also offered him the chance to gain new confidence. Through his biography, the author illustrates how the escape affected the existence of a survivor. When Kurt Bergheimer (1925-2007), later Bigler, sought refuge in Switzerland, he was alone, destitute, and uneducated. The young man succeeded in building important relationships in Switzerland. Some individuals posed challenges for him, while others supported him in finding his way in his new life. Kurt completed his high school diploma, found a home with his adoptive mother, and graduated from university.