My Why

At the age of 50 I was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s Disease. I decided to do everything I could to combat the progression of this neurological disorder. Shooting baskets and playing guitar were some activities from my youth that I returned to. I added tai chi, riding my bike, boxing and kayaking to the list of traditional and non traditional treatments for Parkinson s. I took my medicine and suffered the side effects which made me feel like I was going crazy. Some job changes, medication adjustments and alot of heart searching resulted in the peaceful coexistence I share with the rotten roommate in my body, Mr. Parkinson. Parkinson tries to steal my facial expression, my voice, my ability to swallow, my handwriting. He made it difficult to pull myself up on the horse or swing my leg over the bike seat to go for a ride. Although I have Parkinson’s, he can’t have me. I will not let my voice and my mobility be taken away by this uninvited guest. I am moving on...

On June 1, 2012 I stepped out the door of the work world the last time.  I had been employed with the same agency for 32 years.  Walking to my car, I remember making a point of walking employees to their cars on their last day of work. I was by myself today. We drove to the airport on got on a plane to Paris.  Adding two more to our C-Team group, we made our way to St. Jean Pied de Port France.  We began walking the Camino Frances to Santiago de Compostela.  32 days later we were sitting in front of the Cathedral of St James. Amazed.

Now I return,  The first Camino left me blistered and bruised and I had some amazing bus and taxi experiences, but did not walk the  entire 500 miles as I planned.

So I go back to walk.  This blog is named hop skip and jump because I will be traveling across Spain by foot, by bus, by taxi, by train, by bike and if I can swing it even by horse. I will meet my traveling companions, my fellow pilgrims along the WAY.