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
One day I decided to go for a walk... 
Michelle, I’m so sorry to hear of your fall, grateful that you are on the mend with braces, and wondering at the interruption of your plans for the Camino Frances. Your creativity and framing of the disappointment toward hope is a gift that goes along with your story-telling way. Continue to use everything in the kingdom, bidden and unbidden, for his glory. Heal well and savor the thankful moments even in a recliner! Prayers coming your way, too.
Thank you so much for your kind and uplifting words. Trust me I can complain with the best of them but when I think about my knee and the Camino I am determined to do everything I need to heal and I am so grateful that I am able to do so.
Not so good at all to have a fall while you were supposed to walk the walk in July. Maybe the fall reminds you that you are not ready to do as in now. First, let your knee and arm heal and then full-on on your walk again. Thinking off you and look after yourself. Heaps of love to you.
So, so sorry to hear about your fall. Something happens in a second and all of a sudden your life and plans are changed. As hard as it is, I encourage you to follow the orders you have been given regarding movement and rest. Sending a long distance hug and encouragement♥️