I Walked 240 KM After Knee Surgery – At 67!
The Heartfelt Journey of Suman Shedge
There was a time when Suman Shedge, a 67-year-old from Pune, could barely walk without pain. Her knees had become stiff, swollen, and painful — and every step felt like a struggle.
“I had stopped doing the things I loved. Even climbing the stairs or sitting on the floor during family gatherings had become impossible,” she recalls. “The pain was constant. I felt like I was slowly losing my independence.”
But today, Suman walks with confidence. She recently completed the Waari Yatra — a 240-kilometre spiritual walk from Alandi to Pandharpur — not once, but three years in a row. Her journey from pain to strength began with one brave decision.
A Big Decision, A Bigger Hope
Suman met Dr. Neeraj Adkar, Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon at Saishree Vitalife Hospital in Pune. After a detailed evaluation, Dr. Adkar recommended a bilateral total knee replacement — a surgery that would replace both her knees and give her a new chance at mobility.
“It was a scary decision. Recovery after surgery at this age isn’t easy. But the way Dr. Adkar spoke to me — calmly, clearly — I felt reassured,” she shares. “I just wanted to be able to walk without pain again.”
From First Step to a 240 KM Walk
With the support of her doctors, physiotherapists, and family, Suman followed her rehab plan with dedication. Just a few months later, she was sitting cross-legged and walking with ease.
And within less than a year, she did something no one expected — she joined the Waari Yatra.
The Waari Yatra is a spiritual pilgrimage where thousands of devotees walk from Alandi to Pandharpur, covering around 240 kilometers on foot. It’s a test of faith, endurance, and willpower.
“I had dreamed of doing the Waari, but thought it was no longer possible. After surgery, when I felt strong again, I decided to go. I didn’t want to just walk — I wanted to live fully again,” says Suman.
A Message to Others
Now, after completing three consecutive Waaris, Suman feels proud, grateful, and unstoppable. To others suffering with joint pain, she has one thing to say:
“Don’t wait. Don’t suffer in silence. Surgery gave me my freedom back. I walk pain-free today, and I feel younger than ever.”
Where Her Journey Took a Turn
Suman’s story is not just about surgery — it’s about finding courage, reclaiming freedom, and believing that it’s never too late to start over.