WE DID IT! We completed the five-day ride from Leon to Santiago, and have the aching muscles to prove it! Most of the route was hilly, and was often on stony and difficult paths. We had some long days and low moments, but also the thrill of some glorious downhills on almost empty roads. The weather was perfect and the autumn colours of the mountain scenery magnificent. On the 5th day we arrived at the summit of the Monte del Gozo to see Santiago de Compostela spread out below us. At the Cathedral our 'Pilgrim passports' were stamped - the seal on our achievement. Thanks to all who have already donated to our charities - if not, please help these worthy causes now if you can.
Jane is a professor of palliative care and end of life studies. Her chosen charity is Hospice Africa http://www.hospiceafrica.org/
which she has learnt about through the research of one of her African PhD students who has been working in Uganda. 25-50% of patients with HIV/AIDS have severe pain and AIDS has brought a great increase in cancers with AIDS related cancers the most frequently occurring cancers in Uganda. The hospice works with patients and families in their own homes and in hospitals, wherever they are asked to see them. They often have to provide food aid alongside clinical treatments because of the extreme poverty in which patients with AIDS live.
