The curse of the Camino

[Sarahandlouise]

Sometimes our path to to the Camino is a challenge. In April we had to cut short our walk due to a family bereavement and we carefully planned our return trip for September. As we booked our flights for September 5th and reconnected with friends who were also returning in September we started to pack our bags. Today I broke my thumb in a sliding door at home and the Dr's opinion is I can't travel next week. I have a horrible feeling that there is a conspiracy against us......a personal journey thwarted by fate.
On a spiritual note my youngest daughter was on a train from London and the man sat opposite her started to talk to her about the Camino........unprompted he said he knew that her mother had walked part of the Camino without finishing and that I had to return......trust me I am trying to return but it might be 2014 now!

 

[MM4214]

What a shame about your thumb. I really enjoyed your blog and was looking forward to the continuation of your Camino. The "force" is strong in you as witnessed by the soothsayer, so I know it will eventually happen-thumbs and all!

 

[Rebekah Scott]

When you do finally make it, it will be GREAT. In ways you cannot even imagine now.
(Not to contradict a doctor, but why do you need a thumb to walk the camino? I saw a pilgrim last week who was doing it with one arm...)

 

[annakappa]

Unless there is some extra complication not mentioned, I don't understand why a broken thumb could stop you walking the Camino. One little girl broke her arm when walking the Camino (daughter of kiwifamily on the Forum). They fixed her up, carried on walking to Santiago. Last year I tripped over and broke a rib, but I still carried on walking, still carrying my backpack.

 

[Carol06]

Sometimes our path to to the Camino is a challenge. In April we had to cut short our walk due to a family bereavement and we carefully planned our return trip for September. As we booked our flights for September 5th and reconnected with friends who were also returning in September we started to pack our bags. Today I broke my thumb in a sliding door at home and the Dr's opinion is I can't travel next week. I have a horrible feeling that there is a conspiracy against us......a personal journey thwarted by fate.
On a spiritual note my youngest daughter was on a train from London and the man sat opposite her started to talk to her about the Camino........unprompted he said he knew that her mother had walked part of the Camino without finishing and that I had to return......trust me I am trying to return but it might be 2014 now!

If it were me I think I would just go anyway. A broken leg, yes stay at home, but maybe you can cope with your thumb. Unless your arm is in a sling and then how are you going to get your pack on. Good luck!!!

 

[wayfarer]

Go for it. (and bring some painkillers)
Don't let circumstance make all the decisions. Have a great Camino.

 

[Sarahandlouise]

At the moment the pain is incredible because of swelling, I go back to the fracture clinic on Friday to have it re set! I walk with Nordic poles that strap around my thumbs and that won't be possible for approx 6 weeks. With some other underlying health considerations I need my Dr to be on side so will take his advice....I would say fingers crossed but under the circumstances!

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

I use poles as well when I hike so I understand how iportant they are for you. I have learned over time that there is a reason for everything. So, do what you beleive is the right thing to do and I suspect that you are being led to that decision for some other reason that you may or may not ever know about. Buena suerte.

 

[Olivares]

Get a second opinion. I've seen people on prosthetics doing the Camino, so not sure how a set thumb truly prevents one from walking... Use transfer services. Get an ice pack. The medicine is Spain, specially, Orthopedic Surgery is outstanding. Been in Spain while injured may be a blessing in disguise....

 

[cherie]

I sympathise with you Sarah The exact thing has happened to me. Yesterday I had an operation to pin my thumb which was the same day I was meant to fly out. My Le-Py camino has been postponed for 10 days and my surgeon is quite happy for me to go. I plan on using one pole initially.

 

[Sarahandlouise]

I saw my surgeon today and he has said because of my long term diabetes and risk of infection I can't travel for 4 weeks! We have now rebooked 22nd April 2014 so we will return a year almost to the day we had to leave. Hoping third time lucky!

 

[Kitsambler]

... I walk with Nordic poles that strap around my thumbs ...

PacerPoles are shaped differently, so they interact with your hands differently, including the thumbs. It might be helpful to check them out for your situation, if the Nordic poles are the sole limitation.

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

All healed up in April, you will feel much better than. Good luck and happy hiking.

 

[MM4214]

It is best to take your doctors advise. You have more planning and dreaming time ahead but all will be fine in April. Good luck with your thumb.

 

[KiwiNomad06]

Broken thumb might 'sound' minor- but I know from breaking my wrist that the hand has a myriad of different movements that we need it to do. Best to be home where it can be checked easily to make sure it is healing as it should. And if you have a heavy cast that you need to keep dry.... I know I couldn't have walked like that. Camino will still be there for you next year. All the best! Margaret

 

[pollockce]

Sometimes our path to to the Camino is a challenge. In April we had to cut short our walk due to a family bereavement and we carefully planned our return trip for September. As we booked our flights for September 5th and reconnected with friends who were also returning in September we started to pack our bags. Today I broke my thumb in a sliding door at home and the Dr's opinion is I can't travel next week. I have a horrible feeling that there is a conspiracy against us......a personal journey thwarted by fate.
On a spiritual note my youngest daughter was on a train from London and the man sat opposite her started to talk to her about the Camino........unprompted he said he knew that her mother had walked part of the Camino without finishing and that I had to return......trust me I am trying to return but it might be 2014 now!

 

[pollockce]

Remain positive and keep planning your Camino. My husband and I had originally planned our Camino for 2008. We had to cancel the night prior to flying out due to work obligations. It became one of our biggest regrets so this past May, we decided to make it happen. We were unable to walk the full amount due to work but got 300km in. I injured myself on a steep muddy downhill on day 2 hiking outside of SJPdP and though I would have to bail again. However, I went to an osteopath, did baggage service for a few days, aspirin, and knee brace to finish. You have been called and you will make it. It will happen when it's right....just keep making those plans! Buen Camino!