30 Days. 500 Miles. More Than a Walk, A Tribute We Can Share

Hi, my name is Kurt, and this September, I will be walking the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in honor of my mom who passed away unexpectedly, almost a year before I will begin this journey. This sacred pilgrimage across Northern Spain is known for being a journey that allows for time of deep prayer and introspection.

My mom was born in Mexico City, later moved to Mérida, Yucatán, and eventually came to the United States as a young girl. She was a dreamer, a storyteller, and someone who found beauty in everything. One of her lifelong dreams was to visit Spain. She imagined the art, the food, and the history. She spoke of it often but sadly; she never had the chance to go.

She was vibrant and healthy at 83 years old, still working and full of life, when sudden back pain turned out to be sepsis. Her organs shut down rapidly, and she passed away last August with no warning and no chance for a real goodbye. In the months since, I’ve longed to do something meaningful to honor her life and all she still means to me.

Her sudden passing reminded me just how precious and unpredictable time is. This reality is why I’ve decided to commit to this challenge of walking the full Camino. I am planning to do this 30-day journey from the French border to Santiago de Compostela. I’ll be bringing her ashes with me creating moments for remembrance and renewed healing.

Those who’ve done the Camino speak of it as a deeply moving experience. I know this will be emotionally and physically demanding. I’m already preparing carefully, planning each leg of the route and pushing myself to complete the pilgrimage in 30 days, though it typically takes closer to 37.

This isn’t just a trip. It’s a tribute. It’s the fulfillment of a dream my mom never got to complete. My mom gave everything to the people she loved, especially me. This is something I feel called to do for her. If you’ve ever lost someone too soon and felt the pull to honor them in a special way I hope you’ll understand why this journey means so much to me.

I am aware that the cost of getting there, and all of the basic necessities while on the Camino, in addition to not earning an income for the month will add up. I am very aware that not everyone is physically able to do a Camino like this. For those who are able to donate, any amount, I would be honored to bring a small stone of remembrance for your intention or loved one. As part of this pilgrimage, I’ll be visiting the Cruz de Ferro, the Iron Cross. It is one of the most sacred and symbolic places along the Camino de Santiago. The tradition is for pilgrims to carry a small stone from home and leave it at the base of the cross as a way of letting go of a burden, honoring a loved one, or marking a prayer or intention. In addition to bringing a stone for my mom, I would be honored to carry a small stone on behalf of each person who donates to this journey. If there’s something you’d like to pray for, let go of, or a loved one you want to honor, I will lay the stone before the cross and will be praying for you and your intention along this journey too.

Thank you for walking with me in spirit — and for helping me carry my mom on this final journey!

With love and gratitude,

Kurt