Leon loopt

The walk of love

Hello, I'm Leon de Vries, a 29-year-old from Dedemsvaart in the Netherlands, and I'm about to embark on a wonderful journey. Unlike most pilgrims who travel towards Santiago de Compostela, I've chosen to reverse the route. My pilgrimage will take me from Spain back to the Netherlands, ending in Zwolle. This unique journey covers the well-known Camino route, spanning 2,435 kilometers, but with a symbolic twist - heading north instead of south. My motivation extends beyond the physical challenge; this pilgrimage holds a deeper purpose, transforming into a mission of charity and cherishing those dear to me.

The decision to finish in Zwolle was not a random one. For this year, Zwolle is hosting Het Glazen Huis (The Glass House) as part of 3FM Serious Request, an annual event held just before Christmas. The focus this time is on Metakids, a foundation dedicated to helping children with metabolic diseases. These illnesses, often not well-known, have a devastating impact on children and their families. Throughout my journey, I aim to raise awareness for these children and their ongoing struggles, and to do my part in raising funds for research into better treatments and possible cures.

But there’s more. I won’t be traveling by myself. My father will be accompanying me. While I walk, he'll be close by in a motorhome, ready to provide a healthy meal or a supportive word at the end of a long day. My choice to have him with me has a profound significance. In 2014, ten years ago now, my father came dangerously close to death due to a sudden illness. I almost lost him. This experience has made me appreciate more than ever the importance of treasuring the time we have with our loved ones. Life is fragile, and nothing should be taken for granted.

With every step I take, I’ll walk for children battling severe diseases, and every kilometer I cover is a reminder of the precious moments we share with our loved ones. I hope that my journey will inspire people to reflect on what truly matters in life: health, family, and the power of helping others, no matter how big or small the contribution.

My pilgrimage will begin on September 19th in Santiago, and I hope to reach Zwolle by December 18th, the day I turn 30. The road ahead is full of challenges, but also rich with significance. As I traverse villages, towns, mountains, and rivers, I won't just be walking a path; I'll be creating a trail of memories, hope, and love. I'll have my father's support, and together we'll be there for Metakids, and for all the people we encounter on our journey.

I will go my own way, but I never walk alone.

The expenses necessary for this trip will be paid by myself, so if you feel like supporting me on this journey, please consider donating.

Here's the link to the Charity page:

https://www.npo3fm.nl/kominactie/acties/leon-loopt