As Tina approached her 80th birthday, Sergio Siverio posted in his WhatsApp group with his five siblings that their gift to their mother would be taking her to partake in the Camino de Santiago.
Surprised but eager, everyone joined in on the plan and contributed financially to ensure Tina could enjoy the experience she had dreamt of for so long.
Sergio had completed different parts of the journey three times before and upon each return, Tina expressed her desire to accompany him.
Upon turning 80 on March 12, Tina’s son decided it was time. They spent a month preparing, going for walks every weekend, offering guidance on proper walking techniques, cane usage, and even practising carrying a bit of weight on her back.
La Orotava natives, Sergio Siverio Domínguez and Clementina Domínguez Castilla, started their journey on Sunday, June 9, and completed it on Friday, June 14. They covered a total of 114 kilometres in six days, which included a dip in the Iso River. Despite the cold water, Tina refrained from swimming but made up for it with refreshing showers at their accommodations. Tina expressed her contentment upon reaching the finish line and fulfilling her long-awaited dream.
Tina still finds herself surprised by the birthday gift, setting a personal goal to complete the journey. With remarkable determination, she proudly achieved it.
While the journey felt long at times, the people they met along the way helped Tina overcome the seemingly endless distances. Tina mentions meeting travellers from around the world, including five Chinese women who walked alongside them for a couple of days before parting ways.
As they recount their experience to Diario de Notices, they share light-hearted moments. Tina teasingly recalls Sergio’s constant reminders about the correct path to take. Sergio, in return, jokingly emphasizes his concern for her safety during the journey.
Choosing the path starting from Sarria to the capital of Galicia allowed them to complete the 114 kilometres required to obtain the compostela – a document granted by ecclesiastical authorities at the Pilgrim’s Office of the Cathedral of Santiago, certifying the completion of the Camino de Santiago.
This particular section is popular among pilgrims for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic landscapes. Sergio wanted to showcase these aspects to Tina along with the opportunity to savour delicious Galician-style octopus along the way.
The initial 23-kilometre stretch proved to be the most challenging for Tina, with Sergio occasionally helping to carry her backpack for comfort. Surprisingly, the following day’s 25 kilometres posed no issues for Tina, much to Sergio’s pride. Many were intrigued by Tina’s journey, often requesting photos with the remarkable octogenarian.
Referring to the San Isidro Labrador walking sticks replica, Tina found it to be a fitting representation of her hometown, La Orotava. The sticks held sentimental value as they honoured Tina’s late best friend, Carmela, who hailed from a family of farmers.
Despite Carmela’s absence, her spirit was felt throughout the journey. The pilgrimage was seen as a heartfelt tribute to La Orotava’s festivities and to Carmen, who played an integral role in Sergio’s and Tina’s lives.
Tina and Sergio confirm that the walking sticks garnered attention along the Camino, sparking curious inquiries from fellow travellers. Sergio took pride in sharing the history behind the sticks, drawing parallels to La Orotava’s vibrant traditions.
Agreeing that the walking sticks stole the spotlight, Tina emerged as the esteemed village representative on the Camino de Santiago.
Throughout the six days, Sergio captured photos and videos to share Tina’s remarkable journey with the rest of the family.
Arriving at the capital on Friday, the duo decided to postpone entering the Cathedral due to the crowds. Opting for a more rested visit on Saturday, they attended mass together to bless the sticks. Today, they plan to present the sticks to Carmela’s family, enjoying a glass of wine, wrinkled potatoes, and a helping of gofio, the cherished staples of the Pilgrimage, known as the most beautiful celebration in the Canary Islands.
