Story of Willem

Nothing is more important during the 4Days Marches than a good pair of shoes on your feet. After all, you want to get as few blisters as possible during this challenge. But imagine that on the eve of the start you realize that you have forgotten your carefully broken-in walking shoes... It happened to Willem Meijer (67) during the 106th edition of the 4Days Marches.

Willem has successfully completed the 4Days Marches thirteen times. The seasoned walker himself comes from Wormer (North-Holland), but during the 4Days Marches he always stays with José and Berry Rosmalen in Nijmegen. Since 2003 this has been his permanent residence, and over the years Willem and his host parents have built up a warm relationship. But Willem could never have imagined that this bond is so strong that José and Berry would make a three hour ride especially for him.

Wrong shoes

On Monday evening, after arriving in Nijmegen, Willem starts unpacking his bag. But to his horror, he discovers that he has not brought his trusty walking shoes, but his regular sneakers. "I grab my shoes and suddenly think: those aren't my walking shoes at all. I have a pair of sneakers that are similar in color", Willem explains after the 4Days Marches.

Three hour drive

Willem has been dropped off by his wife and therefore does not have a car at his disposal to drive back to Wormer to pick up his shoes. 'Host mother' José - as Willem affectionately calls her - offers him her car, but they soon realise that this is not a option. "Then José immediately said: that's crazy too, because then you're not home until twelve o'clock and you have to sleep. So you know what: I'll get them. I didn't know what I was hearing", says Willem, still impressed by the gesture. And so Berry and José drive back and forth from Nijmegen to Wormer, a drive of more than three hours. "I really had tears in my eyes", Willem says emotionally.

Together

According to Willem, this is exactly what makes the 4Days Marches so special: "This is the feeling of the 4Days Marches, that togetherness. What people are willing to do for you. Also the other people in Nijmegen who are standing on the sidelines, the students, the whole organization. This is the ultimate example."

Next year Willem will of course be there again, of course he will spend the night with Berry and José again.