Hi Georgia,
Your story reminds me of what I went through prior to walking the Camino in September 2010.
I had heard about the Camino and always had an interest in one day walking it too, until one day I was on the Internet and I came across an article that spoke more in detail about the journey to Santiago. Instantly I become obsessed with it and decided at that moment that I had to do it and I was going to do it as soon as I could. I started reading all could about and ordered to guide to start planning my trip.
My parents had the same reaction that yours did
My father called my insane and irresponsible and couldn't understand why I wanted to walk 800+ km across Spain.
My mother, although somewhat supportive did her best to talk me out of it. She said it was dangerous, that I was crazy and that I would just be punishing myself for no reason.
My friends always knew that I was different, but even they didn't understand why I was so determined to do this - and by MYSELF!!
MY sister was the only person who supported me
So booked my flight, packed my bags and off I went.
As scared as I was at the time, looking back now it was the single best decision of my life. The Camino changed me as a person and taught me more about myself than I ever knew. As much as your mother would like to join you, I truly believe you should go on your own and experience it for yourself. Like you said, you will meet other people and you will never really be alone.
The stories, pictures and friendships that I returned with are priceless and all those people who didn't understand why I was so hell bent on walking the Camino back in 2010 are now the same ones who ask me how they can get started on their own today. Since returning my friend has walked the last 100 km and my neighbour walked from St. Jean - both changed people today.
Forget about about other people tell you and just GO!!
You won't regret it and you might find yourself wanting to do it again a few years later like I am right now.
Buen Camino