I have been thinking about friends I met on the Camino and remembering how many of them sustained injuries. Ankles, knees, backs, all have fallen prey to falls, over use, improper footwear, and more. I think about this because I tripped on a sidewalk and fractured my right knee and my left wrist. my husband and I made plans to have dinner and catch a movie on a Wednesday night. We agreed to meet at the restaurant. I decided to park near the cinema and walk the 8-9 blocks to the cantina. I was about 2 blocks from where I parked, enjoying the late afternoon sun when…I…fell…HARD! My very first thought upon hitting the concrete was, “Am I going to be able to walk the camino again?” I had hoped to walk part of the Vezelay route in France from Châteauroux to Limoges, about 100 miles, in July.
The orthopedic doctor delivered the news I didn’t want to hear. No camino in July. He did say maybe September but I don’t know if I’ll be available to travel then. He also gave me hope that perhaps I could do the camino Frances next year.

The emergency room fitted me with wrist and knee braces and I’ve been hobbling to the living room to sit in a recliner. Instead of trekking poles I have crutches. I am only allowed up to take care of the most important tasks. Needless to say it has been a difficult time.
I’m trying to remain positive about this. When I think about cheating and being up more than I should be I remember how important my knee is to me not only for the camino but in my every day life. If my wrist doesn’t heal properly I won’t be able to pick up my grandchildren. So for now my camino will consist of a journey in my heart and mind. I will remember to be grateful for all that I have. Family and friends have come together to bring me food, keep me company, and prevent me from watching too much reality tv 😮😏. I’ll walk my camino from my recliner.
Buen Camino