First Timer from Texas

[James Cooper]

I decided to walk the Camino after watching The Way and after being told Im on the transplant list to get a new kidney. So it may be a few years before I can go. That just gives me more time to get in shape, save money , plan and dream about it. Any advice you can offer will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Deleted member 36903]

Welcome to the forum James. Sorry to hear of your health problems but wish you well soon you now have an excellent motivator for your return to full health, meanwhile you can have the vicarious pleasure (that many of us have had) just logging in here and 'listening' to the advice, plans and experiences of others. One of the members described this as a virtual Camino, and it surely is as you can guarantee that you will 'meet' many good human beings who enjoy being able to offer information to those planning to walk - or walk again. The planning is fun, no need to establish a marine-level fitness regime, after the hike over the Pyrenees, it is a gentle walk through villages, towns and countryside. Others will soon pile in with sensible suggestions, I just wanted to say hello and Buen Camino!

 

[willydp]

You have the right attitude!
Never ever give up
Enjoy the preparation while waiting.
I hope for you that it will happen... the sooner the better.
Buen Camino!

 

[Mike Savage]

Welcome James!
I have not had a kidney replaced but have had quite a few other medical issues/operations. The best I can offer is to try to get just a little bit better every day. It doesn't have to be much but always moving forward. For me trusting in God has been a tremendous help and lastly the toughest part to recovery has been "mind over matter" where I tend to be over protective of myself so I don't get injured more. I have on a few time had arguments with myself as to what I needed and what I was physically capable of. As a quick example: I had to use a cane to walk for years after back and neck injuries due to a car accident. When I was doing photography I needed both hands for the camera and noticed, after a period of time, that I would move around without the cane when I was focused on taking pictures. I finally convinced myself that it was mostly in my mind at that point and I needed to not only try to walk without the cane but just do it without fear. For me it worked.

May God bless you on your journey.

Buen Camino.

Mike

 

[wayfarer]

Welcome to the forum James, wishing you well on your medical issues and your Camino. Always forward.
Buen Camino.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Hi SEB, I am always amazed and overwhelmed at the kindness and compassion expressed by members of this forum to those who are hurting, whether due to illness or emotional pain from loss in their life. Happy dreaming and planning to you as you await your future surgery. You will find everything you need to know (and more) on this forum for a successful Camino!

 

[nycwalking]

Hi James. You will walk to namesake, St. James asap. Illness, ahhhh. Last year this time I had steroid-induced diabetes and could barely walk, so Camino plans: no go. Now, diabetes is gone as are steroids and chipmunk cheeks. The forty pounds of weight gained during year on steroids putting up battle to hang on, but getting rid of them lbs. asap. I can walk, shakier than pre-meds, but only I notice it. Praying I will never need Liver transplant, and it continues to hold up on non-steroid meds alone. I will: Thank God, St. James, and universe for renewed health, Autoimmune Hepatitis stability, and mobility, by walking camino this year. Leaving day after Father's day for VDP or CF, again. Life happens to us while we are busy making other plans. Vaya con Dios.
Buen camino.

 

[mcopeland]

Where are you from in Texas? There are several American Pilgrims on the Camino chapters in Texas where you will meet lots of like-minded individuals who have or plan to walk the C amino and who will give you lots of support and information.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

I decided to walk the Camino after watching The Way and after being told Im on the transplant list to get a new kidney. So it may be a few years before I can go. That just gives me more time to get in shape, save money , plan and dream about it. Any advice you can offer will be greatly appreciated!

Hello James. Best wishes for your operation. As for advice, if you don't already speak Spanish use some of your time to pick it up. Just being able to chat with the locals for a few minutes will greatly enhance your trip.

 

[James Cooper]

Where are you from in Texas? There are several American Pilgrims on the Camino chapters in Texas where you will meet lots of like-minded individuals who have or plan to walk the C amino and who will give you lots of support and information.

I live on the North side of Houston, Texas....I can speak a few words of Spanish but it is TexMex slang so Im not sure if that will help or hinder...No matter cause I have lots of time to learn more.

Buen Camino!!!