More than twenty years ago, Dani founded the Family and Life Association (DiŽ) in Krško, dedicated to supporting spouses and families. Together with his wife, they have worked all over Slovenia. For his dedicated work, he was also awarded the highest papal decoration Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice. I can say that his mission is now being carried on by his son, while Dani, with his wealth of experience, continues to help the Society.
In 2017, he and his wife also walked the French Camino. When I announced my whereabouts on the first day, Dani immediately contacted me and gave me his word that he would accompany me the whole way. He offered to make sure that I would not miss anything. He told me that if I needed anything anywhere, to contact him. Dani knew the route well, especially the surroundings and the places, as I was near his birthplace. He had many relatives, friends and acquaintances from DiŽ. Now I must admit that I felt quite honoured, because Dani is considered a well-known personality, so to speak. To have his support is really an honour.
I walked for six days. Every day I received a message from him with the names and phone numbers of the people he was going to sent by on the road. He had been in contact with them before and informed them that I was going to their places. He always asked me if I needed anything and said he would help me if I had any problems. As I had already booked my accommodation for the day before, I did not need such help. But these people surprised me every day with treats and company where we agreed. Dani and I also heard each other on the phone and talked from time to time. When one of the hardest days came, he was there to encourage me and give me strength. God repay you for your kindness!
I remember meeting a lady who brought me coffee, a sandwich and sweets in front of the church under the lime tree. After the hard kilometres I had walked, I was genuinely glad to see her. Then, in a village some distance away and - it seemed to me - a little lonely, I had the company of a gentleman who lived alone on a farm. He served me a cold drink, which I had brought with me. The next day, my husband and wife came to look for me where I was staying. They showed me around and then I went to their place, where I had a good meal and a drink. I had a wonderful time all afternoon.
Then, the day after, I met up with a friend of Dani's who served me ice cream and a drink after the end of the day's stage. The pleasant conversation and company did me good. Also in Ptuj, I was in the sincere company of a friend, who again showed me hospitality and with whom I had a rest, which I really enjoyed that day.
All these meetings and social gatherings that Dani has arranged have enriched me. I was especially touched by the fact that he wanted to help me from a distance, and in this way he further proved how wholehearted and committed he is to his mission. It is important to note that he also helped other pilgrims who were in these places in a similar way.
It is worth mentioning that we have joined forces to organise a lecture by the hiker Oliver Tic in Krško in December 2022.
Long may Dani continue to spread his goodness among us and continue to inspire people, as he has inspired me.
Andreja Bakšič Grozdina, 2 Sep 2025
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