All our pilgrims achieve something exceptional and deserve respect. But every now and then, there are pilgrims who deserve just a little extra respect. Like Steffie and Henk.
Steffie (89 years old) walked last year with her son from Sarria to Santiago. In short stages, but with a walking frame. More than deservedly, she won the title ‘WAW Walker of the Year’ last year. But arriving in Santiago was not enough for Steffie. It left her wanting more. So in April this year, she walked with her niece from Santiago to Finisterre and Muxia. Once again in short stages and accompanied by her walking frame. Proudly, she sent us a photo of herself at the lighthouse. ‘We reached the top, we did it!’
Steffie: “I wish I still had the strength to walk more Caminos, but I notice it’s getting less. It’s through willpower that I achieve what I want.”
And then there is Henk (84 years old). For years, he dreamed of reaching Santiago on foot. And at 84, it finally happened. In May this year, he joined our group walk on the Camino Espiritual. In his mind, he had already walked this route several times. He had watched every video on YouTube, studied the route in detail, trained 1000 km. Never had a pilgrim been as well prepared as Henk. But then? Your legs still have to walk those 125 km themselves.
Armed with walking poles, a smile on his face and wonderful walking companions, we set off together with Henk. Of course, it did not come easily. And those climbs were truly challenging. But Henk kept smiling. Kept enjoying. And each day, we moved a little closer to Santiago. His wife and son were waiting for him on the square in Santiago. Goosebumps. The next day Henk told us, ‘Once and never again.’ By now, he is already dreaming of his next Camino. Next year, if his health allows it, he wants to walk to Finisterre and Muxia. Oh, and Henk (front right in the photo) kept a blog before, during and after his pilgrimage. Highly recommended to read!
Henk: “It is almost impossible to describe what happens to me during those more than six days in the company of nine other Camino walkers and very caring guidance.”
Dreams can come true
Steffie and Henk: their Camino started with a dream. Their stories teach us that dreams can come true. Regardless of your age. That it is never too late to make your dreams reality. And that with willpower and perseverance, and a little help from us, you can go a very long way.
It is a tremendous honour that pilgrims like Steffie and Henk cross our path. And there are many more stories like theirs. You inspire us, challenge us, show us how you enjoy every step, and allow us to share in your journey before, during and after your trip. And that gives us enormous satisfaction, every single day. Thank you!
Let Steffie and Henk be an example for you as well. They certainly are for us!
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