Conquering El Camino: How Maggie & Dana Turned Recovery Into Triumph

This is the inspiring story of how a retired couple worked through injuries, recovered from spinal surgery and hiked 30 miles on El Camino de Santiago

Maggie hiking in El Camino !

A Dream Takes Flight Amidst Challenges

Maggie & Dana-both retired and enjoying life-had a goal in mind. They wanted to hike part of the El Camino de Santiago, 30 miles through Paploma. El Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of Saint James, is a renowned network of pilgrim routes leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, northwestern Spain. Traditionally, pilgrims have traveled these paths for centuries. Beyond its spiritual significance, the Camino de Santiago also attracts hikers and cultural enthusiasts from around the world, drawn by its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Their dream was clear, but the path was uncertain. Unsure of where to start, how their body would do, they decided to consult with Dr. Amanda & Dr. Mary at Restore PT.

Maggie faced significant physical hurdles that could have derailed their plans. After years of battling chronic back pain and nerve issues which culminated in spinal surgery, Maggie was tired of the traditional model - she wanted a therapist who looked at the big picture, the whole body. She was looking for a doctor that had a plan to help her not only recover from surgery, but get back to ALL the activities she had been missing over the years. That's when, 4 years ago, she found Restore PT, a place that promised more than just temporary relief but a roadmap to reclaim her lifestyle. Her passion for gardening, her active role as a grandmother, and her love for pottery motivated her to seek a holistic approach to recovery.

Determined to not only recover but also thrive, Maggie committed wholeheartedly to a comprehensive physical therapy program. Through Maggie's dedication to her health, and consistency with her forever evolving exercise program, she has made massive strides. From barely being able to empty a dishwasher due to pain, now gearing up to conquer the 30 milk hike through the hills of Spain, pain-free. Her dedication to her health and her body and consistency led to an experience of a lifetime with her husband Dana.

Training for El Camino!

A Supportive Partnership in Wellness

Dana, ever the supporter and an adventurer in his own right, decided to join Maggie in training at Restore PT. A retired Spanish teacher and musician, he had lingering injuries that needed attention before their big hiking trip. Under the guidance of Dr. Mary, he underwent a tailored three-month regimen to enhance his strength and flexibility, ensuring he was more than ready for the physical challenges of the Camino

Dana had a solid exercise foundation prior to coming to Restore, but he needed help progressing his current routine, while simultaneously addressing both lower/upper body impairments in order to properly prepare for El Camino de Santiago. He worked with Restore to create exercise routines that included specific warm-ups and cool-downs crafted to safeguard his body during the hike. His proactive approach and eagerness to learn and adapt were crucial in preparing for the journey ahead.

His consistency and dedication to this program and his own health were the driving factors to his success. Dana is an avid learner which was apparent in his questions regarding what would be most beneficial for him throughout this process. He was eager to do what was necessary to make this trip an enjoyable one for him and his wife. Dana happily reported having no issues with his body during the hike when he returned back to Restore!

Left to right: Dr. Amanda Zarriello, Maggie, Dana, and Dr. Mary Keough

A Journey of a Lifetime

Together, Maggie and Dana's story is not just about overcoming physical limitations but about redefining what's possible in recovery. Maggie and Dana didn’t just hike 30 miles; they journeyed into a new chapter of their lives, pain-free and proving that true adventures really do await at every age. It’s never too late to chase your dreams and turn them into reality!