Walking through cancer. A thread for inspiration.

[VNwalking]

No one used to talk about this.
Which is ridiculous, as 1 in 8 of us will have to deal with it at some point.

I am thinking of @Anniesantiago today, as she faces a possible diagnosis.
Anyone who has been through this will know in their gut how that day feels - no matter how long ago it was.

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I'll start.
I was meant to be walking in 2009.
But.
Surprise.
Instead I spent the summer awaiting a biopsy, and then surgery, then the recovering from it, and finally deciding what next.
The gory details of the story don't matter.
What matters is I can say that there is a far horizon where cancer isn't occupying the entirety of my consciousness.
And I wouldn't live one day differently, cancer included.
Life is precious and fleeting. I know that better now.
Cancer taught me vulnerability opens the heart like nothing else.
It showed me strength I didn't know I had.
And that love is all around us, when we don't try be an island.

The camino is waiting. She will wait as long as you need. But I was fit enough to walk distances surprisingly soon after surgery.
I got off relatively lightly. Not everyone does. But life does go on.
And knowing all that? Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving, no matter what the outcome.

Deeply heartfelt prayers, Annie...and for any others, if you are in the same boat.
It's scary as heck, but taking one moment at a time you do get through it...just like on the camino.
May you have all blessings, and may your journey through this culminate in a celebratory Camino...boots on the ground in Spain!

 

[Bagobev]

As a two time cancer survivor I can say that for me the waiting was the hardest, waiting for doctor appointments, waiting for test results, waiting for treatment: a day can seem like a year. I don't know you Annie but my thoughts are with you.

 

[VNwalking]

My experience, too, @Bagobev .
Once you know what you're facing, and when, and the process is going, it's all much more bearable.

 

[C clearly]

I had breast cancer over 15 years ago now - 2 surgeries, chemo, 1 year of one drug, 5 years of another.

I agree 100% that the waiting for a diagnosis is the worst. Once you have a plan in place, it becomes do-able.

For the first week or 2 after diagnosis, I was very sad and upset. Lots of tears. However, one Sunday morning I woke up and thought "I'm going to live, so get on with things." From that point on, I dealt with it matter-of-factly. I even found the experience to be very interesting. Of course that was made easier because I had a good prognosis in spite of it being an aggressive type of cancer.

 

[Former member 49149]

No one used to talk about this.
Which is ridiculous, as 1 in 8 of us will have to deal with it at some point.

I am thinking of @Anniesantiago today, as she faces a possible diagnosis.
Anyone who has been through this will know in their gut how that day feels - no matter how long ago it was.

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I'll start.
I was meant to be walking in 2009.
But.
Surprise.
Instead I spent the summer awaiting a biopsy, and then surgery, then the recovering from it, and finally deciding what next.
The gory details of the story don't matter.
What matters is I can say that there is a far horizon where cancer isn't occupying the entirety of my consciousness.
And I wouldn't live one day differently, cancer included.
Life is precious and fleeting. I know that better now.
Cancer taught me vulnerability opens the heart like nothing else.
It showed me strength I didn't know I had.
And that love is all around us, when we don't try be an island.

The camino is waiting. She will wait as long as you need. But I was fit enough to walk distances surprisingly soon after surgery.
I got off relatively lightly. Not everyone does. But life does go on.
And knowing all that? Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving, no matter what the outcome.

Deeply heartfelt prayers, Annie...and for any others, if you are in the same boat.
It's scary as heck, but taking one moment at a time you do get through it...just like on the camino.
May you have all blessings, and may your journey through this culminate in a celebratory Camino...boots on the ground in Spain!

Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving, this sentence is one to hold onto, thank you VNwalking.

 

[ebrandt]

Breast cancer in 2016, Danish Haervejen in 2017, total ankle replacement in 2018. Pause for retirement, cross country move, and becoming a caregiver for my mother-in-law. I’m off again this coming August.

My thoughts, too, are with @Anniesantiago. These major health issues change one’s self image and underscore one’s vulnerability. I find I have to be intentional about maintaining my core sense of strength and confidence — things I always took for granted. But the experience of illness has also made me a more empathetic person and emphasized the importance of the people in my life and the small everyday joys of living. My first Camino made me slow down. Illness made me slow down even more. I am a more loving and giving, if less robust, person, now than I was before the two C’s. I pray that I may meet Annie in person on a future Camino!

Ultreia.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving

Written on a rock on a camino detour was a similar thought, each step is a prayer to the earth.

 

[SYates]

I had a cancer scare many years back, it turned out be benign but the week I waited for the biopsy result to come in was ... My thoughts and prayers are with everybody who deals with this. Hugs from Santiago, SY

 

[LesBrass]

I walked my first Camino as a way of proving I was alive. Cancer... or any serious life changing illness... serves to remind us all that life is precious and no matter who we are, we’re all vulnerable and susceptible to illness.

I am changed for the better. I value my life and the people that fill my world in a way that I didn’t before.

May we all keep safe. ❤

 

[nycwalking]

I have had two breast biopsies both benign.

Five years ago autoimmune illness grabbed me. Sixty additional pounds later and now Alzheimer’s caregiver to mom, and driving pops around have been interesting and difficult.

Last year’s five days on camino were so special. A forum member who knew me from thinner, healthier days was surprised I was hobbling up those awful steps next to Cathedral.

I’d rather push on than give in.

Anniesantiago, like the rest of us is: Camino strong.

And: this too shall pass!

 

[Anniesantiago]

Thank you all so much for your wise and comforting words.
You are all so very brave!
I can't tell you how the support on this forum has touched me.
Your stories give me hope and courage, and it's good to hear I'm not the only one who feels the waiting, waiting, waiting is the agonizing bit. I'm not a patient person to begin with ::chuckle:: so this is a kind of torture.

Emotionally, I'm still ok and strangely calm.
Physically, the lump throbs and I want it gone.
Spiritually, I'm good and still grateful to wake up alive each beautiful morning.
I feel blessed to have lived the life I've had and hope for many more Caminos!

I'm looking forward to today's doctor visit and I'm praying he will order the biopsy to be done this week so I can have an answer, one way or the other.

 

[brianne fitzgerald]

I walked in my isolation room through my leukemia diagnosis and now I am nearly a year out thanks to a stem cell transplant. Looking forward to another Camino in fall 2020 or spring 2021. Walking saves my life every day

 

[Hurry Krishna]

No one used to talk about this.
Which is ridiculous, as 1 in 8 of us will have to deal with it at some point.

I am thinking of @Anniesantiago today, as she faces a possible diagnosis.
Anyone who has been through this will know in their gut how that day feels - no matter how long ago it was.

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I'll start.
I was meant to be walking in 2009.
But.
Surprise.
Instead I spent the summer awaiting a biopsy, and then surgery, then the recovering from it, and finally deciding what next.
The gory details of the story don't matter.
What matters is I can say that there is a far horizon where cancer isn't occupying the entirety of my consciousness.
And I wouldn't live one day differently, cancer included.
Life is precious and fleeting. I know that better now.
Cancer taught me vulnerability opens the heart like nothing else.
It showed me strength I didn't know I had.
And that love is all around us, when we don't try be an island.

The camino is waiting. She will wait as long as you need. But I was fit enough to walk distances surprisingly soon after surgery.
I got off relatively lightly. Not everyone does. But life does go on.
And knowing all that? Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving, no matter what the outcome.

Deeply heartfelt prayers, Annie...and for any others, if you are in the same boat.
It's scary as heck, but taking one moment at a time you do get through it...just like on the camino.
May you have all blessings, and may your journey through this culminate in a celebratory Camino...boots on the ground in Spain!

 

[Pelen]

I have had cancer but I was extremely lucky. My mom passed away with intenstins cancer when she was 54. That can be a genetic cancer so I have got checks every 5th year. I was not worried, just happy that they checked me. They checked me by coloscopy. One time the doctor said that I could have CT instead so I was checked with CT. Still no worries. But they found something. They made biopsy and the answer was that they could not find any cancer. The thing they found was mostly in my appendix so they decide to take it away because I probably would have problems later.

And it was cancer. A type of appendix cancer. How lucky could I be? Which part of the body except from the appendix do your really not need? At last something tiny good came out of my moms death, because of her my cancer was found early and i survived. This cancer had probably been there for a while because it was not visible via coloscopy.

Some years later I walked the camino - of happines.

 

[easygoing]

No one used to talk about this.
Which is ridiculous, as 1 in 8 of us will have to deal with it at some point.

I am thinking of @Anniesantiago today, as she faces a possible diagnosis.
Anyone who has been through this will know in their gut how that day feels - no matter how long ago it was.

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I'll start.
I was meant to be walking in 2009.
But.
Surprise.
Instead I spent the summer awaiting a biopsy, and then surgery, then the recovering from it, and finally deciding what next.
The gory details of the story don't matter.
What matters is I can say that there is a far horizon where cancer isn't occupying the entirety of my consciousness.
And I wouldn't live one day differently, cancer included.
Life is precious and fleeting. I know that better now.
Cancer taught me vulnerability opens the heart like nothing else.
It showed me strength I didn't know I had.
And that love is all around us, when we don't try be an island.

The camino is waiting. She will wait as long as you need. But I was fit enough to walk distances surprisingly soon after surgery.
I got off relatively lightly. Not everyone does. But life does go on.
And knowing all that? Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving, no matter what the outcome.

Deeply heartfelt prayers, Annie...and for any others, if you are in the same boat.
It's scary as heck, but taking one moment at a time you do get through it...just like on the camino.
May you have all blessings, and may your journey through this culminate in a celebratory Camino...boots on the ground in Spain!

12 years ago I underwent treatment for breast cancer. 4 and 1/2 months of chemotherapy double mastectomies and just when my hair was growing back a follow-up CT scan showed spots in my lungs and my liver. Being a hospice nurse I knew those were the spots that breast cancer can metastasized to. My husband and I had planned to walk the Pacific Crest trail, more than four times the length of the Camino Frances. I was in a quandary because my physician wanted me to wait two months and have a another scan see if anything grew big enough for a biopsy. I had to decide between sitting around and worrying or go ahead and start hiking the Pacific Crest trail. Well I chose to enjoy life. It was hard at first the chemo had really broken down my strong body. I cried everyday because I couldn't do what I used to do and it was so hard. Really upset me to get past so much my frumpy out of shape older women. (I tend to be a little judgmental sometimes and competitive).
About a month into the trip I was walking and talking with a young man having a great time. I looked back and my husband was way behind us. That was the day I realized Sharon had come back. My reserves were back. 5 months later, I stalled a month, I went and saw my worried doctor who quickly arranged a CT scan. The results were amazing every spot was gone in my lungs and my liver had only a few small ones left. I believe the fresh air and exercise and my decision to eat vegan healed me. Although Spain cured me of being vegan, I continued to walk the Camino every year and will complete my 10th Camino in May. And still no more cancer 14 years later.

 

[VNwalking]

You are beautiful and amazing.
Each and every one.
It's so touching and inspiring to read these stories.
A bow of thanks...and thanksgiving.
♥

 

[gittiharre]

Thank you all so much for your wise and comforting words.
You are all so very brave!
I can't tell you how the support on this forum has touched me.
Your stories give me hope and courage, and it's good to hear I'm not the only one who feels the waiting, waiting, waiting is the agonizing bit. I'm not a patient person to begin with ::chuckle:: so this is a kind of torture.

Emotionally, I'm still ok and strangely calm.
Physically, the lump throbs and I want it gone.
Spiritually, I'm good and still grateful to wake up alive each beautiful morning.
I feel blessed to have lived the life I've had and hope for many more Caminos!

I'm looking forward to today's doctor visit and I'm praying he will order the biopsy to be done this week so I can have an answer, one way or the other.

Dear Annie, I wish you well for your journey.
I was diagnosed with high grade bladder cancer 5 or so years ago, followed by 3 years of treatment and ongoing 6 monthly monitoring. My camino experiences provided me with many of the tools needed to deal with this kind of health issue. I was very grateful to have learnt to take things step by step. I have continued my annual pilgrimages right through, fitting them between treatments. My specialist said, I was mad, but now agrees, it was the best thing, I could have done. I feel incredibly thankful every time, I see those yellow arrows again...as others have said, the waiting between appointments and results is the worst part. I downloaded a free insight timer meditation app, as I was too freaked out to sleep. I listened to the same meditation 18 times in a row over 2 or 3 hours, the first night, before I could go to sleep, but it was really helpful and after a week of persisting with this, I got my emotions in hand.

 

[Sue127]

As a two time cancer survivor I can say that for me the waiting was the hardest, waiting for doctor appointments, waiting for test results, waiting for treatment: a day can seem like a year. I don't know you Annie but my thoughts are with you.

I echo all that you have said, Bagobev - the waiting is hard and despite mine being 16 years ago, there are still times when I worry that it will return. Sending you positive energy, Annie, and hoping it will take you through to the Camino - my first will be this year!

 

[nycwalking]

I echo all that you have said, Bagobev - the waiting is hard and despite mine being 16 years ago, there are still times when I worry that it will return. Sending you positive energy, Annie, and hoping it will take you through to the Camino - my first will be this year!

Buen camino

 

[Anniesantiago]

What a group of amazing, wonderful, courageous survivors!
I love reading your stories!
They give me strength and hope.

Today I got the appointment for the biopsy.
It will be Friday at 2 pm.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
Thank you all again!

 

[nycwalking]

What a group of amazing, wonderful, courageous survivors!
I love reading your stories!
They give me strength and hope.

Today I got the appointment for the biopsy.
It will be Friday at 2 pm.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
Thank you all again!

Prayers going out to you!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Every single story told here deserves a "like/love". They have all been very special to read. Although I have not had cancer, I have played the horrible "waiting game" and I know the angst involved. You are all amazing and I am personally uplifted by your stories. Thank you for sharing them publicly.

 

[OTH86]

@Anniesantiago , 2 pm Friday - I'll be at St James Cathedral in Seattle thinking about you! All the best!

 

[easygoing]

What a group of amazing, wonderful, courageous survivors!
I love reading your stories!
They give me strength and hope.

Today I got the appointment for the biopsy.
It will be Friday at 2 pm.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
Thank you all again!

Good luck with your biopsy. Something that got me though the uncertainty and fear is feeling the moment. I tell my hospice patients "All anyone has is the moment they are in and that moment is the same for all of us". As I went through chemotherapy and fear I told myself there's nothing happening right now in this moment I can't handle. So often we worry so much that we're not feeling the peace of the moment we are in. I'm not saying something bad can't happen but each of us has great inner strength when we need it. And even something bad is easier to face moment by moment.

 

[VNwalking]

The week may feel like suspended time and suspended animation.
What was is no longer.
What will be is unknown.
I hope you can walk in nature, Annie, just feeling into now - and everything that you're feeling. It's a lot to digest, but for now there is a quiet week. If it's nothing, phew. But if it's something things can move pretty quickly. So rest and be gentle with yourself.

 

[MarkyD]

No one used to talk about this.
Which is ridiculous, as 1 in 8 of us will have to deal with it at some point.

I am thinking of @Anniesantiago today, as she faces a possible diagnosis.
Anyone who has been through this will know in their gut how that day feels - no matter how long ago it was.

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I'll start.
I was meant to be walking in 2009.
But.
Surprise.
Instead I spent the summer awaiting a biopsy, and then surgery, then the recovering from it, and finally deciding what next.
The gory details of the story don't matter.
What matters is I can say that there is a far horizon where cancer isn't occupying the entirety of my consciousness.
And I wouldn't live one day differently, cancer included.
Life is precious and fleeting. I know that better now.
Cancer taught me vulnerability opens the heart like nothing else.
It showed me strength I didn't know I had.
And that love is all around us, when we don't try be an island.

The camino is waiting. She will wait as long as you need. But I was fit enough to walk distances surprisingly soon after surgery.
I got off relatively lightly. Not everyone does. But life does go on.
And knowing all that? Each step is a whisper of thanksgiving, no matter what the outcome.

Deeply heartfelt prayers, Annie...and for any others, if you are in the same boat.
It's scary as heck, but taking one moment at a time you do get through it...just like on the camino.
May you have all blessings, and may your journey through this culminate in a celebratory Camino...boots on the ground in Spain!

Hi VN Walking and a big Camino hug to anyone going through this illness, recovering from it, or close to someone affected by it. I did my first Camino in 2018, and as you all know, we are frequently asked why we are doing the Camino. I wasn't forthcoming at first, I didn't want to bother anyone else with my trials and tribulations. But eventually, as people opened up to me, I then opened up to them. This happened on many occasions throughout my epic 44 days on the CF.
I met fellow sufferers in various stages of recovery or mourning a loss of a loved one who was taken by this illness, or other similar tragedy.
For me, walking my first Camino enabled me to open up about how it affected me, cry lots of tears, scream lots of screams and laugh out loud at still being alive and fighting to get well again.
I was shocked in January 2017 with a diagnosis of stage 3 colon cancer, having started to feel some unusual abdominal pains about 6 months earlier.
An operation quickly followed, scary but necessary. That removed the tumour and re-plumbed my pipework, it's amazing what medical science can achieve. Unfortunately, due to risk of further metastasis, I had 6 months of chemotherapy to nuke anything left lurking around inside - it was that treatment that really did the damage to me, physically, mentally and emotionally.
The Camino I walked was a much needed healing process, a safety release valve, a love injection, a gift from the universe and I can truly say that now, almost 3 years after my initial diagnosis and operation, I have managed to recover about 95% of the "old me" if you like. It's this "old me", always positive, full of energy, willing to try new things etc., who I had somehow lost through the impact of the illness and treatments. I had become a shadow of my former self, anxious, delicate, lacking confidence, feeling down and often tearful.
But it wasn't just the Camino that helped me recover, it was also the love of my wife, children, family and friends. However, it was the Camino aquaintences, friends and places that gave me the opportunity to let it all go, a massive discharge of negative emotions to the stars in the Milky Way above and the brown earth that I trod each day. It was a way of proving to myself that I could reach a difficult goal and overcome obstacles, and above all enjoy the wonder of life for as long as I can. We are all mortal beings, so life is a ticking clock; but we waste so much time on meaningless activity or non-activity. The illness brings all that into a very sharp, unavoidable focus. The Camino enables time and space to make the transition, the necessary transformation, to discover or re-discover your true self; at the very least to be brave and take on the new journey with an open heart and mind, a yielding and soft approach but with a strong spirit to say: just do it!
Buen Camino perigrin@, whoever you may be, no matter what you have to face, or what you've been through. Whether you choose to share it or not, we are all just passengers on this rock, passing through to another destination. On walking the Camino, it's often said: it's not the destination that is important, it is the journey. Choose love over hate, choose good over evil, choose laughter over anger, choose positivity over negativity, embrace it all and find your way to walk below the stars above, feel your feet on the ground, let go your fears, welcome each day as another gift to try and be the best you can to yourself and all those around you.
Maybe on my next Camino I will meet one of you, maybe not, but I feel we are all connected. In our day-to-day lives we may often lose this feeling of connectedness, the Camino is a great remedy for anyone needing to reconnect with their soul, inner-self, to feel close to nature and the wonder of existence and share some of the feeling with other mortal beings who may walk with you a little way along the path of life.

 

[MarkyD]

12 years ago I underwent treatment for breast cancer. 4 and 1/2 months of chemotherapy double mastectomies and just when my hair was growing back a follow-up CT scan showed spots in my lungs and my liver. Being a hospice nurse I knew those were the spots that breast cancer can metastasized to. My husband and I had planned to walk the Pacific Crest trail, more than four times the length of the Camino Frances. I was in a quandary because my physician wanted me to wait two months and have a another scan see if anything grew big enough for a biopsy. I had to decide between sitting around and worrying or go ahead and start hiking the Pacific Crest trail. Well I chose to enjoy life. It was hard at first the chemo had really broken down my strong body. I cried everyday because I couldn't do what I used to do and it was so hard. Really upset me to get past so much my frumpy out of shape older women. (I tend to be a little judgmental sometimes and competitive).
About a month into the trip I was walking and talking with a young man having a great time. I looked back and my husband was way behind us. That was the day I realized Sharon had come back. My reserves were back. 5 months later, I stalled a month, I went and saw my worried doctor who quickly arranged a CT scan. The results were amazing every spot was gone in my lungs and my liver had only a few small ones left. I believe the fresh air and exercise and my decision to eat vegan healed me. Although Spain cured me of being vegan, I continued to walk the Camino every year and will complete my 10th Camino in May. And still no more cancer 14 years later.

Spain cured your veganism - hahahaha, I know what you mean. Great inspiration to read your story, thank you for a wonderful reply.

 

[MarkyD]

What a group of amazing, wonderful, courageous survivors!
I love reading your stories!
They give me strength and hope.

Today I got the appointment for the biopsy.
It will be Friday at 2 pm.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
Thank you all again!

Wishing you all the best. I went on my own, because in all honesty I never expected to be told I had cancer. Big mistake, I should have gone with someone. If you can, go with your partner, a family member, a friend or a fellow pilgrim soul. Whatever the resulting news, it will make it easier to walk out of there.
Because I was on my own I didn't really listen properly to the various things they told me. If I had someone with me, then they could have helped me by taking notes or something. They also could have held my hand or hugged me. I had to go home on my own, I didn't tell my wife until she came home from work later that day.

 

[AJGuillaume]

My wife had breast cancer in 2017, and after her operation and chemotherapy, is in remission.
We decided to walk the Camino in 2018, in thanksgiving.
We left her original family home in Switzerland on 9 June, followed the Via Gebennensis, the Via Podiensis, the Voie Nive-Bidassoa, the Camino del Norte, arriving in SdC on 30 October. 2178km in 133 days.
She finds walking is therapeutic, yet her medication makes her tired. So I planned our Camino around short stages, staying mostly in private rooms to give her comfort, and booked everything ahead to give her certainty.
This year, we're spending a week in SJPdP as volunteers, and then flying to Lisbon to walk the Caminho Português.
She is my inspiration!

 

[MarkyD]

Keep going, do what makes you feel happy. Enjoy it all. You are each other's inspiration, it takes two to tango!

 

[easygoing]

My wife had breast cancer in 2017, and after her operation and chemotherapy, is in remission.
We decided to walk the Camino in 2018, in thanksgiving.
We left her original family home in Switzerland on 9 June, followed the Via Gebennensis, the Via Podiensis, the Voie Nive-Bidassoa, the Camino del Norte, arriving in SdC on 30 October. 2178km in 133 days.
She finds walking is therapeutic, yet her medication makes her tired. So I planned our Camino around short stages, staying mostly in private rooms to give her comfort, and booked everything ahead to give her certainty.
This year, we're spending a week in SJPdP as volunteers, and then flying to Lisbon to walk the Caminho Português.
She is my inspiration!

Congratulations, I am also a cancer survivor. I have walked the Camino 9 times and feel healthier each time.
2 questions, when are you volunteering in St Jean and where? My husband and I will be there in May volunteering at Beilari.
Also what medication is your wife on? And how long is she expected to be on it?
My doctor wanted me to go on Arimidex for 5 years which I declined because it only lowered my risk of reoccurrence by 15% and exercise lowered it by 30% and exercise had no negative side effects? I am a nurse so I know there's many different kinds of cancer. But I've also learned the hard way that doctors often don't tell you you have options. That said, it sounds like you have a good plan that works for you. A buen Camino and many more to come.,

 

[Manicka]

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I haven´t (yet) myself. Nevertheless, here is my experience:
I went to my first Camino Portuguese (Lisboa - SDC) in 2018 with my son Jonathan. It was tremendous experience, both the camino and going one month with my son. We returned home happy and very close to each other. Two weeks after our return Jonathan was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia and very bad prognosis.
I had planned to return to the Camino (Primitivo) in spring 2019, but one week before my departure my brother died of cancer. I did not depart.
I am still trying to understand. It seems to me that we are supposed to go through "valley of shadows" to find out what´s important in our life, to find the right "self", to understand that we are never alone. But it hurts.

 

[Sansthing]

I had surgery for lung cancer last April, luckily caught early...I´ve just bought my ticket for Madrid for this April, my 5th Camino. Thinking of you Anniesantiago.

 

[AJGuillaume]

Congratulations, I am also a cancer survivor. I have walked the Camino 9 times and feel healthier each time.
2 questions, when are you volunteering in St Jean and where? My husband and I will be there in May volunteering at Beilari.
Also what medication is your wife on? And how long is she expected to be on it?
My doctor wanted me to go on Arimidex for 5 years which I declined because it only lowered my risk of reoccurrence by 15% and exercise lowered it by 30% and exercise had no negative side effects? I am a nurse so I know there's many different kinds of cancer. But I've also learned the hard way that doctors often don't tell you you have options. That said, it sounds like you have a good plan that works for you. A buen Camino and many more to come.,♥

We will be at the Pilgrims office (Accueil des Pèlerins) at 39 rue de la Citadelle from 4 to 11 May.
The medication is Tamoxifen for 10 years.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

We will be at the Pilgrims office (Accueil des Pèlerins) at 39 rue de la Citadelle from 4 to 11 May.
The medication is Tamoxifen for 10 years.

I will be in Santiago a few days during that same time. Maybe I will see you in the Pilgrim office.

 

[AJGuillaume]

I will be in Santiago a few days during that same time. Maybe I will see you in the Pilgrim office.

We will be in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, not in Santiago. We'll be in Santiago mid-August.

 

[OTH86]

Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

I haven´t (yet) myself. Nevertheless, here is my experience:
I went to my first Camino Portuguese (Lisboa - SDC) in 2018 with my son Jonathan. It was tremendous experience, both the camino and going one month with my son. We returned home happy and very close to each other. Two weeks after our return Jonathan was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia and very bad prognosis.
I had planned to return to the Camino (Primitivo) in spring 2019, but one week before my departure my brother died of cancer. I did not depart.
I am still trying to understand. It seems to me that we are supposed to go through "valley of shadows" to find out what´s important in our life, to find the right "self", to understand that we are never alone. But it hurts.

I'm so sorry to hear about your cancer experiences - they are every bit as much about facing cancer for you as for your family members. I DO hope you will return to the Camino!
Take care of yourself!

 

[VNwalking]

I am still trying to understand. [...] But it hurts.

Yes. Indeed.
One thing cancer taught me is how truely vulnerable we all are. And how common cancer is. Because we're born, we die. Everyone. And there's no escaping that. Nor can we know how and when that will happen. These are very painful truths, but better to know them than not.

 

[Geodoc]

About six years ago I was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer - PSA over 250 and Gleeson scores of 8 to 10 (you either know this stuff or can look it up). At the time, I was told that the only good news was that it wasn't in the bones, "yet." The CT scan was ugly.

I was basically given 18 months without treatment. Even with treatment, the odds weren't good (28% survival rate at 5 years).

The hardest part for me was telling my wife and teenage children (especially since my father had died of cancer at the age of 45, when I was 21).

It would be nice to say that all went well, but life likes to throw you curves. One of the many was almost losing my family when a Douglas first tree slammed down on my wife's car while they were coming home from a local ski resort a couple of years later. Many of you have probably read about my wife's Camino 2 years after the accident (and she just completed a second one last year).

A complete lifestyle change led to my eliminating sugar from my diet and going vegan (you should read my cookbook, "Camino Eats for the Solo Vegan"). Yes, one can walk across Spain and remain vegan, just not easily.

Another change was to finally do many of the things I had been putting off. I wrote some novels, learned the basics of how to play a guitar, improved my Spanish (still not fluent), and resumed traveling. Three caminos in two years. This year, another bucket list item: New Zealand.

Growing up overseas, living through two civil wars, volunteering in an ad hoc refugee camp on the edge ofa war zone, then several years as a cop (where I was almost killed several times and had a fellow cop killed just days after working out with him), you could probably say that death was not a stranger to me. It wasn't, but, life was.

I am embracing life as much as possible now, working through my bucket list, and striving, in the words of Breaker Morant, to "live every day as if it were your last, as one day, you're sure to be right."

Getting diagnosed with cancer is scarier than living with it. I wrote a line above the door to Bar Elvis last July that I stole from "The Way," which I feel all of us, especially cancer patients, should live by; "You don't choose a life, you live one."



Prostate cancer has no cure. I'm terminal, but, then again, we all are since birth. Some of us just recognize that more clearly, especially when it's thrown into our faces.

I guess what I'm trying to say to Anniesantiago is don't take counsel in your fears. Life is what it is, and only you can dictate to life how you'll live it. Buena suerta y buen camino.

 

[VNwalking]

Getting diagnosed with cancer is scarier than living with it.

Very true.
You just do what you have to do, one step at a time.
Peace comes with not fighting what is.

 

[gerip]

Just diagnosed. Unbeknownst (if there is such word) t me I've been walking through cancer since I first began in 2018. Couldn't figure out why it was taking me all day to walk the same distance as a morning this past October. Good to read so many stories here of survivors. And my prayers for those who are still fighting the fight.

 

[VNwalking]

Just diagnosed. Unbeknownst (if there is such word) t me

Oh, no! You too?
I am very sorry, @gerip. This is not a club any of us would have chosen to join in a million years, but welcome anyway.
There is a big silver lining to this cloud...love and kindness become much more accessible and much more important....
May your journey be smooth and may you be well!

 

[MarkyD]

Oh, no! You too?
I am very sorry, @gerip. This is not a club any of us would have chosen to join in a million years, but welcome anyway.
There is a big silver lining to this cloud...love and kindness become much more accessible and much more important....
May your journey be smooth and may you be well!

Well put VNwalking, I agree. It seems for some of us the silent stalker caught us unawares, so now the Camino walker comes to do some repairs.

 

[MarkyD]

Just diagnosed. Unbeknownst (if there is such word) t me I've been walking through cancer since I first began in 2018. Couldn't figure out why it was taking me all day to walk the same distance as a morning this past October. Good to read so many stories here of survivors. And my prayers for those who are still fighting the fight.

Gerip, I hope those of us who have contributed to this thread have been of some help. I think we can all say that we are here for eachother, in one way or another. No doubt you will have your own family and friends to help you fight the fight.
As well as those suffering from the illness, the family and close friends are also affected, they often just don't know what to say or do for their loved one who is going through this. Not everyone is comfortable talking about it, and often fear and anger are emotions that can surface from time to time. I never really managed to release the frustrations and other negative emotions, even a year after my tumour removal and 6 months after chemo had ended. But somehow that first day arriving in SJPP was like a catalyst for a much needed process of healing, which continues to this day. I live in wonder and gratitude for life. I feel like another Camino might just be around the corner!

 

[VNwalking]

Not everyone is comfortable talking about it, and often fear and anger are emotions that can surface from time to time.

Yes.
It's normal for these emotions to arise.
But sometimes it feels as though everyone around you just wants you to be brave and positive.
So if you have someone in your constellation of friends and family who is ok with you being real...that person is worth their weight in gold.

 

[Kanga]

@gerip I am sorry to hear this. If this cyber community can provide support while you process, please let us know.

 

[nycwalking]

[QUOTE="VNwalking, post: 816726, member:] Because we're born, we die. Everyone.
[/QUOTE]

Sorry VNwalking.

I am not everyone.

I will never die.

I’ll just pass away!

 

[gerip]

Whatever lies ahead, I hope to be able to use the experience in support of others who walk with/are recovering from cancer.

 

[MarkyD]

Yes.
It's normal for these emotions to arise.
But sometimes it feels as though everyone around you just wants you to be brave and positive.
So if you have someone in your constellation of friends and family who is ok with you being real...that person is worth their weight in gold.

Yes, this is quite common, but they just wish us the best and are trying to do/say something to help. We may not feel very positive or brave at the time they say this, but I think it all helps. Of course, having someone to just listen or hold your hand or help you put your socks on etc can be just the simple act of kindness and compassion that is much appreciated. We had adopted a rescue kitten, who had the habit of laying on my stomach (where I had thr operation) and purring away. It was magical, it was if she knew I needed some healing vibrations!

 

[Finisterre]

I crashed and burnt on my post chemo Camino. (Neck lump). I was walking on adrenalin, the treatment had destroyed my thyroid functionality. I didn't know that. I'd suggest not rushing into hard walking after the severe poisoning that is chemotherapy. It's six years ago now and it was my last attempt at walking to Santiago. I ended up in a taxi to the airport and took the first plane home. No Compostela for me. I wasn't laughing about it then and I'm still somewhat miffed that my pilgrimage ended so ignominiously. C'est la vie.

Rome has been my holiday destination of choice these last five years. The food is better and the churches are bigger, more dramatic, and have better art. It's an ill wind . . .

 

[fiona12]

We had adopted a rescue kitten, who had the habit of laying on my stomach (where I had thr operation) and purring away. It was magical, it was if she knew I needed some healing vibrations!

Animals do heal and are more aware than we will ever understand.
My partner (healthy, fit 53 years old) had a heart attack. Stent was fitted and we were back on the farm after a few days. We went and sat on the ground against an anthill among our Nguni cattle, as we often did. The cows gathered around us. One by one, ten of them came and sniffed all around John's head and shoulders, staring into his face. Then suddenly one cow pushed another forward as though telling her to move along. Before we could move back, the one in front carefully leaped over us (like a show horse). How she never touched us, was amazing. Then an old cow (one of my favourites) came forward, stared for some time into my face, then licked my knee and went on her way.

This happened 12 years ago, yet to this day I get goosebumps thinking about it. I felt as though I received the most special blessing.

 

[OTH86]

Oh, @fiona12 - what a wonderful experience! I got goosebumps too, and absolutely feel that animals know!

 

[VNwalking]

What an amazing experience!
But I'm not surprised.
Cows are underappreciated...and it's true that many other beings are sensitive to things we humans can't detect. Dogs have been known to sniff out cancer, for example. And they have a radar that detects need for comforting....

 

[Sue127]

Hi VN Walking and a big Camino hug to anyone going through this illness, recovering from it, or close to someone affected by it. I did my first Camino in 2018, and as you all know, we are frequently asked why we are doing the Camino. I wasn't forthcoming at first, I didn't want to bother anyone else with my trials and tribulations. But eventually, as people opened up to me, I then opened up to them. This happened on many occasions throughout my epic 44 days on the CF.
I met fellow sufferers in various stages of recovery or mourning a loss of a loved one who was taken by this illness, or other similar tragedy.
For me, walking my first Camino enabled me to open up about how it affected me, cry lots of tears, scream lots of screams and laugh out loud at still being alive and fighting to get well again.
I was shocked in January 2017 with a diagnosis of stage 3 colon cancer, having started to feel some unusual abdominal pains about 6 months earlier.
An operation quickly followed, scary but necessary. That removed the tumour and re-plumbed my pipework, it's amazing what medical science can achieve. Unfortunately, due to risk of further metastasis, I had 6 months of chemotherapy to nuke anything left lurking around inside - it was that treatment that really did the damage to me, physically, mentally and emotionally.
The Camino I walked was a much needed healing process, a safety release valve, a love injection, a gift from the universe and I can truly say that now, almost 3 years after my initial diagnosis and operation, I have managed to recover about 95% of the "old me" if you like. It's this "old me", always positive, full of energy, willing to try new things etc., who I had somehow lost through the impact of the illness and treatments. I had become a shadow of my former self, anxious, delicate, lacking confidence, feeling down and often tearful.
But it wasn't just the Camino that helped me recover, it was also the love of my wife, children, family and friends. However, it was the Camino aquaintences, friends and places that gave me the opportunity to let it all go, a massive discharge of negative emotions to the stars in the Milky Way above and the brown earth that I trod each day. It was a way of proving to myself that I could reach a difficult goal and overcome obstacles, and above all enjoy the wonder of life for as long as I can. We are all mortal beings, so life is a ticking clock; but we waste so much time on meaningless activity or non-activity. The illness brings all that into a very sharp, unavoidable focus. The Camino enables time and space to make the transition, the necessary transformation, to discover or re-discover your true self; at the very least to be brave and take on the new journey with an open heart and mind, a yielding and soft approach but with a strong spirit to say: just do it!
Buen Camino perigrin@, whoever you may be, no matter what you have to face, or what you've been through. Whether you choose to share it or not, we are all just passengers on this rock, passing through to another destination. On walking the Camino, it's often said: it's not the destination that is important, it is the journey. Choose love over hate, choose good over evil, choose laughter over anger, choose positivity over negativity, embrace it all and find your way to walk below the stars above, feel your feet on the ground, let go your fears, welcome each day as another gift to try and be the best you can to yourself and all those around you.
Maybe on my next Camino I will meet one of you, maybe not, but I feel we are all connected. In our day-to-day lives we may often lose this feeling of connectedness, the Camino is a great remedy for anyone needing to reconnect with their soul, inner-self, to feel close to nature and the wonder of existence and share some of the feeling with other mortal beings who may walk with you a little way along the path of life.

Beautifully written ; thank you.

 

[DwainS]

One year ago, Jan 19,2019 I started my cancer treatments. The radiation burnt my thyroid out of commission so taking medication to rectify that situation. Have a couple big doctor appointments in March and May and if all goes well I hope to start my Camino Frances September 2020. I also lost my sister a few years back to cancer so hopefully this walk will be for the both of us. Just trying to go forward and I hope this pilgrimage will help me accomplish this. Buen Camino.

 

[easygoing]

One year ago, Jan 19,2019 I started my cancer treatments. The radiation burnt my thyroid out of commission so taking medication to rectify that situation. Have a couple big doctor appointments in March and May and if all goes well I hope to start my Camino Frances September 2020. I also lost my sister a few years back to cancer so hopefully this walk will be for the both of us. Just trying to go forward and I hope this pilgrimage will help me accomplish this. Buen Camino.

I am also a cancer survivor and will be walking in September. I hope we meet up.

 

[DwainS]

I am also a cancer survivor and will be walking in September. I hope we meet up.

I hope we do also. I will remember your name Sharon.

 

[VNwalking]

Maybe we can wear a pink ribbon on our packs or hats to identify others who have lived through this, or are still dealing with it? (I dislike the word 'survivor,' for some reason. I lived through that experience. Now I'm living other experiences. It's dramatic but no need to hang on to the drama after the fact. It was. That's all...)

 

[AJGuillaume]

Maybe we can wear a pink ribbon on our packs or hats to identify others who have lived through this, or are still dealing with it? (I dislike the word 'survivor,' for some reason. I lived through that experience. Now I'm living other experiences. It's dramatic but no need to hang on to the drama after the fact. It was. That's all...)

Or paint our shells pink, @VNwalking ?

 

[VNwalking]

Or paint our shells pink, @VNwalking ?

Ha! Great idea!

 

[MarkyD]

One year ago, Jan 19,2019 I started my cancer treatments. The radiation burnt my thyroid out of commission so taking medication to rectify that situation. Have a couple big doctor appointments in March and May and if all goes well I hope to start my Camino Frances September 2020. I also lost my sister a few years back to cancer so hopefully this walk will be for the both of us. Just trying to go forward and I hope this pilgrimage will help me accomplish this. Buen Camino.

DwainS, I honestly cannot think of anything better you can do after what you have been through. The Camino experience will give you ups and downs, but it will also give you lots of time for reflection and bit by bit you'll be able to release some of the negative energy that may have affected you through it all.

Don't look for it, don't force it, just be open and enjoy the simplicity of walking from A to B, looking for a meal, sharing moments with others, looking for a bed each night (but don't expect to sleep much!), walking into Churches along the way, reading messages left by others for loved ones written on stones or bits of paper (many will hit you hard, others will make you laugh and smile), listening to others' stories (many of which will inspire you to continue fighting and living life as fully as you can).

Despite the unpleasant experiences you have been going through, you'll suddenly feel awash with gratitude that you are alive and you can truly get to know yourself in ways you've never imagined.

Your patience will get challenged from time to time, so be soft and gentle with yourself and others. It's all part of the journey. I didn't always manage it, but I quickly realised my mistakes and used to say to myself: Oh no, for that moment of negative reaction I've just burned my Camino brownie points for the day! I then went to apologise immediately to the person I had upset, and ignored the fact that they had upset me. There are going to be moments when we or others are tired, irritated due to lack of sleep or painful injuries, so we will not always be on our best behaviour with eachother.

Over 30 to 40 days you will find incredible internal resources that will begin to transform you, possibly forever.
Buen Camino mi amigo

 

[DwainS]

DwainS, I honestly cannot think of anything better you can do after what you have been through. The Camino experience will give you ups and downs, but it will also give you lots of time for reflection and bit by bit you'll be able to release some of the negative energy that may have affected you through it all.

Don't look for it, don't force it, just be open and enjoy the simplicity of walking from A to B, looking for a meal, sharing moments with others, looking for a bed each night (but don't expect to sleep much!), walking into Churches along the way, reading messages left by others for loved ones written on stones or bits of paper (many will hit you hard, others will make you laugh and smile), listening to others' stories (many of which will inspire you to continue fighting and living life as fully as you can).

Despite the unpleasant experiences you have been going through, you'll suddenly feel awash with gratitude that you are alive and you can truly get to know yourself in ways you've never imagined.

Your patience will get challenged from time to time, so be soft and gentle with yourself and others. It's all part of the journey. I didn't always manage it, but I quickly realised my mistakes and used to say to myself: Oh no, for that moment of negative reaction I've just burned my Camino brownie points for the day! I then went to apologise immediately to the person I had upset, and ignored the fact that they had upset me. There are going to be moments when we or others are tired, irritated due to lack of sleep or painful injuries, so we will not always be on our best behaviour with eachother.

Over 30 to 40 days you will find incredible internal resources that will begin to transform you, possibly forever.
Buen Camino mi amigo

Thanks very much for your encouragement and thoughtful insight in what I might experience on this trip. I'am a chef in a busy restaurant and we all know how hectic than can be and it was hard after my treatments. Just need to get out on the open trail and reflect on the last few years. Thanks again.

 

[fiona12]

What an amazing experience!
But I'm not surprised.
Cows are underappreciated...and it's true that many other beings are sensitive to things we humans can't detect. Dogs have been known to sniff out cancer, for example. And they have a radar that detects need for comforting....

I agree absolutely

 

[Oxford Alice]

I discovered a lump in my groin whilst doing the CF in 2014. Back home I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Hooked up to the chemo, I hoped and prayed to get through it. I did. In 2018 I walked again in a spirit of thankfulness to God for restoring my health. I leave on 2 April 2020 to walk again for two friends who are battling cancer; one was my 'Camino Sister' in 2018. And so it goes.

 

[GaryAus]

Thank you all for sharing your stories. I have been quite affected by them. It’s all still quite raw for me currently. I was due to leave for the Camino Portuguese in March 2020 but my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer last October. If the Camino was a life experience, then the cancer experience has been one to. You learn that it truly is one day at a time and that love and support is all around. I will get back to the Camino Portuguese eventually and will walk into SdC next time to give thanks for my wife’s returned good health, with the current delay but a blimp on a longer journey for the both of us.
Buen Camino

 

[VNwalking]

You learn that it truly is one day at a time and that love and support is all around

It is always so, but we unknowingly project ourselves into an imagined future, and try so hard to be independent. Cancer cures one of those illusions...

I will get back to the Camino Portuguese eventually and will walk into SdC next time to give thanks for my wife’s returned good health, with the current delay but a blimp on a longer journey for the both of us.

May it all go well for you both, Gary. That arrival in Santiago will be especially sweet.

 

[Manicka]

I'm so sorry to hear about your cancer experiences - they are every bit as much about facing cancer for you as for your family members. I DO hope you will return to the Camino!
Take care of yourself!

I plan to return. Most probably Primitivo and O Camiño Verde' crossover. I believe that walking the camino is the best way to overcome difficult questions. I do not expect to understand, just walk. And, may be, return more composed.

 

[VNwalking]

I do not expect to understand, just walk.

Beautiful.
Buen camino, @Manicka !

 

[Michelle Menhennet]

thank you for sharing your experience. A couple years ago I posted about my worries walking the Camino post broken ankle. In the past year I have been diagnosed with lymphoma and lost my father in law to that same disease. My prayers and hopes today are for health and strength for as long as possible so that I can one day walk the Camino. Preferably, before chemotherapy. I am in awe of others who have made this journey. Buen Camino.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Thank you all so much for your stories.
I go for my second opinion tomorrow and my lumpectomy is on Wednesday.
Your courage is inspirational and gives me a lot of hope.
Buen Camino - and I think I WILL paint my shell pink!

 

[nycwalking]

Thank you all so much for your stories.
I go for my second opinion tomorrow and my lumpectomy is on Wednesday.
Your courage is inspirational and gives me a lot of hope.
Buen Camino - and I think I WILL paint my shell pink!

Last summer, my 88 year-old mom sailed through her lumpectomy with little to no pain.

You’ll be just fine.

Peace and love.

 

[Former member 49149]

Thank you all so much for your stories.
I go for my second opinion tomorrow and my lumpectomy is on Wednesday.
Your courage is inspirational and gives me a lot of hope.
Buen Camino - and I think I WILL paint my shell pink!

Thanks for reminder, Annie. Candle is glimmering away as I write...

 

[VNwalking]

My prayers and hopes today are for health and strength for as long as possible so that I can one day walk the Camino. Preferably, before chemotherapy.

May it be so, Michelle!

I go for my second opinion tomorrow and my lumpectomy is on Wednesday.

All the best, Annie! ♥

 

[VNwalking]

Annie's pink shell on her pack is a grand idea, for anyone who wants to acknowledge the 'other' camino they are (or have) walked.

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/we-are-going-and-i-decorated-my-pack.66852/#post-832234

Buen camino, peregrina!

 

[Anniesantiago]

thank you for sharing your experience. A couple years ago I posted about my worries walking the Camino post broken ankle. In the past year I have been diagnosed with lymphoma and lost my father in law to that same disease. My prayers and hopes today are for health and strength for as long as possible so that I can one day walk the Camino. Preferably, before chemotherapy. I am in awe of others who have made this journey. Buen Camino.

I'm so sorry, Michelle, about your diagnosis. This is all new ground for me so I have no advice except to BELIEVE you can beat this, stay positive, and just keep on keeping on. I've received SO much wonderful support in this forum from people who have walked through this fire, as well as those who have not. You're on my ever-growing prayer list and I hope to see you on the Camino some day soon! Sending love and good wishes.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Maybe we can wear a pink ribbon on our packs or hats to identify others who have lived through this, or are still dealing with it? (I dislike the word 'survivor,' for some reason. I lived through that experience. Now I'm living other experiences. It's dramatic but no need to hang on to the drama after the fact. It was. That's all...)

For some reason, I missed an entire section of posts in this thread. I'm shocked, saddened, and at the same time encouraged by all those who have gone through or are going through this experience.

I think instead of survivors we should call ourselves warriors!

 

[Anniesantiago]

Thank you all for sharing your stories. I have been quite affected by them. It’s all still quite raw for me currently. I was due to leave for the Camino Portuguese in March 2020 but my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer last October. If the Camino was a life experience, then the cancer experience has been one to. You learn that it truly is one day at a time and that love and support is all around. I will get back to the Camino Portuguese eventually and will walk into SdC next time to give thanks for my wife’s returned good health, with the current delay but a blimp on a longer journey for the both of us.
Buen Camino

Gary, I look forward to seeing you on the Camino someday to celebrate your wife's good health! Stay strong!

 

[Anniesantiago]

What an amazing experience!
But I'm not surprised.
Cows are underappreciated...and it's true that many other beings are sensitive to things we humans can't detect. Dogs have been known to sniff out cancer, for example. And they have a radar that detects need for comforting....

When I was staying with my son last month, their Golden Retriever, Jean Luc, was especially conscious that something was "off" with me. Every time I coughed or sneezed he would run to me and make sure I was ok. When I was sitting on the couch watching tv, he would often rest his head under my arm (where my cancer is). He'd often just lie there and look deep into my eyes like he was saying, "I understand."
-- I can see why that particular breed makes such good companion animals.

 

[VNwalking]

When I was sitting on the couch watching tv, he would often rest his head under my arm (where my cancer is) -- I can see why that particular breed makes such good companion animals.

The nose knows. What a wonderful story, Annie! Thank you for sharing it.

instead of survivors we should call ourselves warriors!

A confession: That label, 'survivor,' bugs me.
It gives more power to the cancer than I like. It was. Then not. It's part of my past but not my identity.
And we're all survivors, until one day we're not.

 

[Anniesantiago]

The nose knows. What a wonderful story, Annie! Thank you for sharing it.

I posted his photo. I sure do miss him.

 

[VNwalking]

I posted his photo

Here?
Edit..now I see it. Awwwwwww!!!!

 

[Flig]

Late to the party, but here goes (On mobile so bear with me). I started planning my Camino back in 2015. Checking out the routes, time required, equipment comparisons, joining forums to get the straight scoop (thanks Ivar), all that jazz which is fun and helps build the anticipation of going on this pilgrimage. So 18 months of saving leave and getting family buy in.

Family situation and work schedule didn’t allow for a ’17 or ‘18 Camin, but ‘19 is all locked on. Then came the lung cancer diagnosis. Rather than humping the Primitivo I ended up taking a journey with surgery and chemo. In remission now with quarterly imaging and oncology appointments. Only one false alarm since the end of chemo.

Well, time passes and I’m nearly as strong as I was before, though not nearly as fit, and the desire to walk my Camino is even stronger. I want a to make a pilgrimage of joy and thanksgiving, really just a celebration of life. So I plan a mini-Camino, the Ingles, which should be a good fit for my level of physical fitness (a wee bit anemia going on, part of Chemo side effects) and allow me to visit family in the UK, and spend time with my son who graduated high school that year. Everything is on track and good-to-go. The only cloud on the horizon, apart from some dodgy imaging of the lung that turned out to be nothin, Was this virus thing that had just made its way to Europe. We all know how that story turned out.

Camino 2020 cancelled. My fear is that I could end up being a vector. I spent enough time in hospital worrying about lungs and breathing to risk creating even the slightest chance of inadvertently passing Corana on to someone. The closing of borders and other travel restrictions sort of took the decision out of my hands in the end. Still, planning to walk Primitivo in ‘21. Honestly, I continued to plan my Camino and visit this forum, even when I was flat on my back due to chemo treatment. Not because I thought I was going, but because it was something to occupy my mind and something to look forward too.

So I still walk my cancer Camino and very much look forward to walking in the foot steps of King Alfonso and the multitude that walked before me.

 

[brianne fitzgerald]

Hold on to the dream. I have walked x 2 2016,2018, leukemia in 2019, hoped to do 2020. No way, maybe in 2021. I have to have a dream. You are in my prayers

 

[Camino Chrissy]

When I was staying with my son last month, their Golden Retriever, Jean Luc, was especially conscious that something was "off" with me. Every time I coughed or sneezed he would run to me and make sure I was ok. When I was sitting on the couch watching tv, he would often rest his head under my arm (where my cancer is). He'd often just lie there and look deep into my eyes like he was saying, "I understand."
View attachment 70459View attachment 70460 -- I can see why that particular breed makes such good companion animals.

Annie, we visited friends a month ago that have two adorable Golden Retrievers and I fell in love with their lovable personalities and the affection they both give and also want.
I totally understand what you are saying and I'm sure Jean Luc was a blessing and an added comfort to your recovery.

 

[MarkyD]

Late to the party, but here goes (On mobile so bear with me). I started planning my Camino back in 2015. Checking out the routes, time required, equipment comparisons, joining forums to get the straight scoop (thanks Ivar), all that jazz which is fun and helps build the anticipation of going on this pilgrimage. So 18 months of saving leave and getting family buy in.

Family situation and work schedule didn’t allow for a ’17 or ‘18 Camin, but ‘19 is all locked on. Then came the lung cancer diagnosis. Rather than humping the Primitivo I ended up taking a journey with surgery and chemo. In remission now with quarterly imaging and oncology appointments. Only one false alarm since the end of chemo.

Well, time passes and I’m nearly as strong as I was before, though not nearly as fit, and the desire to walk my Camino is even stronger. I want a to make a pilgrimage of joy and thanksgiving, really just a celebration of life. So I plan a mini-Camino, the Ingles, which should be a good fit for my level of physical fitness (a wee bit anemia going on, part of Chemo side effects) and allow me to visit family in the UK, and spend time with my son who graduated high school that year. Everything is on track and good-to-go. The only cloud on the horizon, apart from some dodgy imaging of the lung that turned out to be nothin, Was this virus thing that had just made its way to Europe. We all know how that story turned out.

Camino 2020 cancelled. My fear is that I could end up being a vector. I spent enough time in hospital worrying about lungs and breathing to risk creating even the slightest chance of inadvertently passing Corana on to someone. The closing of borders and other travel restrictions sort of took the decision out of my hands in the end. Still, planning to walk Primitivo in ‘21. Honestly, I continued to plan my Camino and visit this forum, even when I was flat on my back due to chemo treatment. Not because I thought I was going, but because it was something to occupy my mind and something to look forward too.

So I still walk my cancer Camino and very much look forward to walking in the foot steps of King Alfonso and the multitude that walked before me.

Keep your dream alive, maybe it will work out for you in 2021 or 2022. I live in Spain and I've seen people doing the Camino this year, despite all the challenges.
I have never done the Camino Inglés, but it is said it is one of the easiest to do physically. There are plenty of experts here and previous threads that can provide you with all the information you may need. However, nobody can guarantee the future situation here, or anywhere else, as you know.

I am reasonably confident that Spain will try to get themselves into a more manageable situation for around May or June 2021. They seem to be working together more just recently between the various autonomous communities and the central government. The biggest question mark could be how the Camino infrastructure might be affected economically, as many small businesses are unlikely to survive the next 6 months or more. That said, hopefully there should be enough options available to enable trouble free pilgrim routes to function.

In the meantime, try to look after and build up your immune system after all that chemo. I had 6 months of chemo in 2017 and I too have my regular check ups: blood tests, scans etc. I try not to think about them, although at first they filled me with anxiety, now I just take them in my stride. I made lifestyle changes to give myself a better chance of dealing with not only the increased cancer risk but also the strengthening of my immune system. It's kind of like my internal Camino, the one that only each one of us can know and walk alone, but also knowing we have people who love and support as along the way.

Wishing you all the best in your recovery and that you enjoy and embrace all that is special in life and do it everyday.

 

[pepi]

No one used to talk about this.
Which is ridiculous, as 1 in 8 of us will have to deal with it at some point.
Have you faced cancer and walked it off?
Please share your story.

Well, on August 13, 2018...my fifth Camino commenced, arriving in mid-afternoon in SJPdP and directly continuing to Orisson in dreary weather but with a warm welcome and dinner there.
My journey was to be very different from the previous ones; usually a very social person eager to exchange with my fellow peregrinos, it was to be a strangely solitary and quiet walk this time. Eventually arriving in SdC, taking hardly a bite off my dinner plate and leaving town with an early morning flight with none of the usually boisterous days and nights. Arriving at home with a nagging pain that finally prompted me to go to the clinic just before midnight. They kept me there and early the next morning I found myself in prep for a 7-hour surgery –my very first one at 74 years of age– to remove half of my cancerous colon. Slowly recovering 8 weeks later,
I collapsed during a check-up back at the hospital, ER, and another surgery, this time for a quintuple bypass.
My doctors could not believe that I actually walked 800km just shortly before.
I survived and can hardly wait to do my sixth CF, that I had to postpone like most of us until (hopefully-) next year due to the Covid; can't wait to get packing.

 

[Kazibar]

i Really resonate with that PepI. I did a grueling six hour third Dan black belt grading in December 2018, in January I was disgnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. It’s tough cancer with only a 15% 5 year survival. Last year was all surgery and chemo. This summer i had a smallish recurrence. I was going to go to Spain and walk but the COVID closedown stopped that. I managed to walk St Cuthberts way in September before starting a new round of chemo.

i Should finish in feb and am aiming to be in Spain in April or May(COVID willing). My numbers are according to my oncologist incredible. I’ll walk short days up to 15 km max mostly 10. I’ll get luggage transported. I’ll stay in private rooms. I’ll not give myself a hard time if I grab a taxi. But I am going.

Its likely that I’ll get less able going forward. I can’t do karate now. Though I did ski in January. So I need 2021....

prayers for all of us...l

 

[pepi]

i Really resonate with that PepI. I did a grueling six hour third Dan black belt grading in December 2018, in January I was disgnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. It’s tough cancer with only a 15% 5 year survival. Last year was all surgery and chemo. This summer i had a smallish recurrence. I was going to go to Spain and walk but the COVID closedown stopped that. I managed to walk St Cuthberts way in September before starting a new round of chemo.

i Should finish in feb and am aiming to be in Spain in April or May(COVID willing). My numbers are according to my oncologist incredible. I’ll walk short days up to 15 km max mostly 10. I’ll get luggage transported. I’ll stay in private rooms. I’ll not give myself a hard time if I grab a taxi. But I am going.

Its likely that I’ll get less able going forward. I can’t do karate now. Though I did ski in January. So I need 2021....

prayers for all of us...l

That’s the spirit, Kazibar! And never mind, how you’ll do it, it’s your Camino!
Just a few days ago, I lost my beloved younger daughter to lung-cancer and am devastated. I’ll dedicate my next Camino to her and ask for a compostela in her name.

 

[MarkyD]

i Really resonate with that PepI. I did a grueling six hour third Dan black belt grading in December 2018, in January I was disgnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. It’s tough cancer with only a 15% 5 year survival. Last year was all surgery and chemo. This summer i had a smallish recurrence. I was going to go to Spain and walk but the COVID closedown stopped that. I managed to walk St Cuthberts way in September before starting a new round of chemo.

i Should finish in feb and am aiming to be in Spain in April or May(COVID willing). My numbers are according to my oncologist incredible. I’ll walk short days up to 15 km max mostly 10. I’ll get luggage transported. I’ll stay in private rooms. I’ll not give myself a hard time if I grab a taxi. But I am going.

Its likely that I’ll get less able going forward. I can’t do karate now. Though I did ski in January. So I need 2021....

prayers for all of us...l

Dear Kazibar, you could well be one of those 15% survivors, especially given your incredible determination. I wish you a successful recovery and that you may realise your dream to walk the Camino.
After all the chemo, you'll need to do whatever you can to boost and maintain your immune defense system. Maybe you can't do the physical side of Karate the way you used to, but perhaps the gentle practice of kata, practised with softness and spirit could help your body maintain its defenses and help your mind deal with the challenges of living well after chemo.