Dear Friends,

Twelve years ago, I first heard the diagnosis: neurogenic osteoarthropathy Charcot. Unfortunately, too late. The disease had completely destroyed my foot and ankle. The only solution at that time (confirmed by three doctors) was amputation. Eleven years after the amputation, I have to deal with this disease once again. Through Professor David Armstrong from the USA, I found specialists from Poland dealing with the "Charcot foot". The progression of the disease is advanced, which can be seen in the attached X-rays, but there is a chance that this time it will be possible to save my leg. I have been in treatment for 16 months. Unfortunately, the treatment is carried out commercially and outside my place of residence. This is associated with high costs, which at this stage I am already unable to bear on my own. Especially since regular treatment of many other diseases absorbs huge resources. The treatment will not give me back my healthy foot, but after the treatment and rehabilitation is complete, it will regain basic functionality to some extent, although it is difficult to talk about any permanent end to the treatment in this case.

In addition, I have been blind in one eye for almost four years, and the sight in the other is a constant struggle. Despite my disability, I have walked the Camino de Santiago five times. I love the world, people, meetings. I don't know how much time I have left, but I want to fight until the end, giving others hope and my smile. The funds raised as part of this fundraiser will be used for treatment and everyday functioning.

I was motivated to start this fundraiser by Daniel, my friend I met on my last Camino in 2023. I would like to return to the trail. Maybe it will not be possible anymore, but I will be forever grateful for every meeting, every conversation and every person I have met in my life. Some were a gift to me, others a lesson. I am grateful for everything. 

I would like to thank everyone individually for all the expressions of kindness and support. Thank you for being with me!!