Hi DBart! Welcome to the forum! I totally agree with the advice offered by C clearly. I returned five weeks ago from completing my first Camino (Frances). At age 69, by the way. I started my walk with several friends I made on the shuttle between Biarittz and SJdPP, but after the first few days I bid them farewell and began walking on my own. It was very liberating. While I very much enjoyed seeing them off and on along the way and getting "caught up," I treasured my time alone, to be with my own thoughts, to go at my own pace and to stop wherever and whenever I wanted. I didn't feel I had to keep up with anyone, and I wasn't slowing anyone down. Walk your own Camino! - it was probably the most important lesson I learned on The Way.
And, yes, it is critical that everyone who is seriously considering going (including yourself), understands just what you're getting into. I'm not sure there was anything I could have done beforehand to adequately prepare me for the reality of the Camino. Make no mistake, it was an amazing journey and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I'm so proud of my accomplishment! But, if anyone thinks this will be a walk in the park, their mistake will very quickly whack them upside the head. And will do so repeatedly. Much of what I knew about the Camino, and a whole lot of answers to my questions, was/were gleaned from this forum. So, keep reading, learn as much as you can, pay attention to what your body is telling you, and have a wonderful trip!
Buen Camino!