Pilgrimage powered by the human spirit raises funds to support people in need of health care

On Nov. 14, Abel Biri, AdventHealth Waterman president and CEO, will embark on a 125-mile walk along Spain’s historic Camino de Santiago, from Leon to Sarria. His nine-day journey aims to raise $100,000 to support the AdventHealth Waterman Community Clinic.

Nestled in the heart of Eustis, Fla., the clinic provides free adult health care services to uninsured patients throughout Lake County. The clinic treats approximately 60 patients weekly with the support of over 67 clinical volunteers.

“The clinic is a beacon of hope for those facing hardship, addressing not only a patient’s physical health but also offering emotional and spiritual support by focusing on the care of the whole person,” Biri said. “I’m doing this walk to raise awareness and funds for our clinic. With every step I take, I am walking for the good and the care of the people in our community.”

A few years ago, Biri developed an interest in undertaking the 500-mile pilgrimage across Spain, known as the Camino de Santiago or the Way of St. James. This historic route extends from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela and crosses through significant cities such as Pamplona, Burgos and Leon.

Biri is undertaking this 500-mile walk in four stages and after walking his first phase of the journey, he had a vision of using this adventure to make a meaningful impact. He transformed his personal pilgrimage into a community-focused initiative, supporting the AdventHealth Waterman Foundation’s fundraising efforts.

Last year, he completed his second stage, walking 111 miles and raising nearly $40,000 for the AdventHealth Cancer Institute Waterman.

This year, Biri will start from where he finished his last trek in Leon and will end in the historic city of Sarria to raise $100,000 for the free community clinic. Thanks to generous supporters, the Foundation has already secured a dollar-for-dollar match of $50,000 to help kickstart the efforts.

The Foundation will ensure every step Biri takes brings the organization closer to providing essential health care to those who need it most.

“Your support is vital. It enables us to provide essential services, from installing electronic medical records to stocking the clinic’s food pantry,” said Mabel Valdivia, AdventHealth Waterman Foundation executive director. “We believe in the power of the human spirit, and we need your help to raise awareness and funds. Together, we can overcome any obstacle.”

To learn more and donate, watch Biri’s video by clicking this link or call the AdventHealth Waterman Foundation at Call352-253-3270.

Pictured below is Biri during his 2023 pilgrimage.