The Big Fall (Trip) and Miracles That Occurred!

A 17.2-mile hike today. We knew we had a big climb in front of us — and the climb pretty much started our day.

Once I begin climbing, I try to concentrate on what is in front of me. The steepness, rockiness, and altitude affect how much work it will be. These hikes tend to have many curves. Just as I think I am close to the top, as I turn the bend, the Camino reveals so much more to go. But there is great satisfaction once at the top!

While the climb and walk were long and rocky, the trail was flat. It reminds me I am on the Meseta!

As we entered the last town before our final destination for today—Fromista- we were all looking for water or some beverage at a Bar up ahead, and a little break from walking. I was putting my trekking poles together to carry in one hand—then it happened! Walking on the flat, concrete pavement, there was a rock the size of my fist that I stepped on, tripped on, and fell on. It was not pretty. As I was falling, I just said, “Oh, please don’t lose consciousness!” There was lots of blood, but the first thing I said was, “How embarrassing!” Then as I saw the blood — I leaned forward so I would not get blood on my clothes—because as my kids know, blood can be a tough stain to get out! 🤣 (Inside joke)

My Camino friend, the retired Marine from VA, grabbed toilet paper from his pack and told me to hold it on my head where there was a lot of bleeding. Simon ran for ice. Several others helped me up. I was fine to walk, but my head got most of the collateral damage.

El deFronso (Marine) was looking up medical centers, and Simon (both pictured) asked for a taxi. El deFranco said he would come with me since I don’t speak Spanish. A gentleman among the pilgrims said, “I am Brian, I have a car and would be happy to take you to the medical center!” I was so overwhelmed by the concern and kindness! I can’t begin to express how wonderful this community is!

I was so thankful El De Fronso went with me to the hospital. He and the doctor were speaking in Spanish. I felt left out. I turned to El De Fronso while the doctor cleaned the bad cut. I asked him, what are you two saying? “Kathie, do you really want to know?” El de Fronso said. “Yes,” I said, “I really want to know.” El De Fronso took a deep breath and said, “She wants to know if we should tell you this is really going to hurt.” I said, “OH!” And it did hurt.

They stitched me up with 5 stitches on my eyebrow. The doctor checked out my hip, where I had a significant bump and amazing purple bruises all along my right side from shoulder to calf—all was okay! Then El deFronso walked me right around the corner to the place I was staying for the night.

I went to dinner with a handful of women I have met on the Camino, all but one traveling solo.

As pilgrims arrived for dinner, many were happy to see me up and around. Many said they heard, “Kathie fell and had to have stitches” so when they saw me (sporting Mimi’s sunglasses) they were really happy “to see your smile!” Mimi and Jo commented, “Everyone knows Kathie—she’s always so friendly and has a smile for everyone.” Then at dinner, several of the women said I brought many of us together—something I didn’t pay attention to, but I’m happy they felt included.

While my right eye is half closed, my arm and especially my wrist are sore. I hope I will feel well enough to walk in the morning.

God is so good to me. HERE ARE THE MIRACLES:
While I look uglier than who knows what—
I am just sore;
I didn’t have a concussion,
I didn’t lose an eye,
and I didn’t break my arm, leg, or hip!
And God sent amazing angels to help me during a time of need.
And while my wrist hurts, we are headed into the Meseta. The Meseta is a flat, expansive PLATEAU in central Spain. This is a big deal because, with my wrist so sore, I can’t really use the trekking poles for ascents and descents. For a week, I can rest my wrists AND CONTINUE MY CAMINO!!
Thank you, Lord!

I feel Jesus’ presence. He goes before me. He is behind me. He is above me. He is beside me. I am never alone. I feel the Blessed Mother, my Guardian Angel, and St. James helping me walk “The Way”. Now, I also have to be real!! Aside from praising and giving thanks that the fall wasn’t Camino-ending, I did have quite a long chat with God, asking him, if at all possible, to let me continue this faith journey without many (ANY) more incidents. ✝️🙏🏻

Praying for all of you on this faith journey! Your prayers for me are most welcome and deeply appreciated!Read more