THE relationship between a grandparent and their grandchild is special.
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For one Ormiston man, known to his grandchildren as ‘Poppy’, the strength of this relationship is so strong that it has prompted him to do what many people would think impossible.
At the young age of 83, Eric Thorne will journey to Spain in late August to complete an 890 kilometre pilgrimage known as the Camino Frances, all in aid of his grandson Samuel, who is quadriplegic.
Sam was a healthy 9-year-old Logan boy who, within the space of 48 hours, went from being a sport loving boy and budding musician to a quadriplegic.
The culprit was a rare incurable neurological disease called Transverse Myelitis; an inflammation of the spinal cord.
Following months of support and care, he was finally able to go home with the use of a specially operated wheelchair, which he is able to navigate with a little movement from his big toe.
Now 11, Sam need 24/7 care as well as communication systems, medical equipment, home modifications and hoists to ensure his quality of life into the future.
With costs amounting in excess of $50,000 annually, his Poppy hopes the pilgrimage will help raise awareness for Sam, as well as raise much needed funds for the future.
Mr Thorne will undertake the walk, which snakes along northern Spain from St-Jean-Pied-De-Port in France to Fisterra - the most western point of Spain, for the third time in dedication to his grandson.
They both see the other as their hero.
“When I questioned Sam about his condition, his response was: ‘It sucks, but I have to get on with life’,” Mr Thorne said.
“Despite this adversity, he has maintained extraordinary resilience and a positive attitude, a hallmark of a mature adult.
“For me, he is my hero.”
When Eric told Samuel of the way, his reaction said it all.
“He was in awe and couldn’t believe it considering I am more than seven times his age,” Mr Thorne said.
“He knows that when I say and promise something, I actually do it.”
Mr Thorne flies out to Spain for the self-funded trip on August 31.
The pilgrimage is expected to take some 44 days to complete. He is expected to return to Australia in mid-October.
Follow Eric’s journey
You can show your support for Sam by donating to the Samuel Thorne Fund.
The fund is recognised by the ATO with all donations of $10 or more tax deductable. Visit www.campaignforsamuel.org.au.
Follow Eric’s progress along the Camino Frances by clicking the link on the home page.
Eric will post blog posts, as well as update reader on Facebook @walking4samuel.
