On November 19, 2011 I had a small bowel resection and takedown of a fistula. To celebrate my complete recovery (no meds!) I walked the 500 mile Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
I started walking on September 23 from St Jean Pied de Port in France, crossed the Pyrenees the first day, and arrived in Santiago, Spain on October 24. I walked for 32 straight days, 550+ miles carrying everything I needed on my back. I had backup medication but did not require anything other than an Imodium or two. I gave away more than I took!
I met people from many, many countries, speaking so many languages, yet we all managed to communicate. My illness did not come up in conversation often, but I did meet one other person with Crohns who looked as healthy as I felt. Every person I met was stripped of all labels whether it is appearance, clothing (ha! lightweight and quick drying were highly coveted), race, age, wealth, religion, illness, etc. I met the true person in each person I met. It was inspiring.
I have an easy time with my Crohn's and sympathize with those who don't. I walked for us all, knowing that we are not defined by this disease.
I started walking on September 23 from St Jean Pied de Port in France, crossed the Pyrenees the first day, and arrived in Santiago, Spain on October 24. I walked for 32 straight days, 550+ miles carrying everything I needed on my back. I had backup medication but did not require anything other than an Imodium or two. I gave away more than I took!
I met people from many, many countries, speaking so many languages, yet we all managed to communicate. My illness did not come up in conversation often, but I did meet one other person with Crohns who looked as healthy as I felt. Every person I met was stripped of all labels whether it is appearance, clothing (ha! lightweight and quick drying were highly coveted), race, age, wealth, religion, illness, etc. I met the true person in each person I met. It was inspiring.
I have an easy time with my Crohn's and sympathize with those who don't. I walked for us all, knowing that we are not defined by this disease.
