The Journal-News of Hillsboro, Ill., has the story of Cherylynn Delfina, 28, of Parlin, N.J., who is walking and/or hitchhiking west on Route 66 to Los Angeles. The reporter caught up with her in the Route 66 town of Litchfield, Ill.
When I met Cherylynn, she had just had a refreshing shower and was feeling pretty fit. She told me she is not doing this as a benefit for anyone or any organization but just wanted to go to California and knew this was the only way she would get there.
Susan and I were concerned at what we felt was a very dangerous way for a young woman to travel.
“You sound just like my mother,” she laughed. “I have not felt afraid at all. People have been very nice and helpful, and I really am enjoying the trip.” She added that if she is walking along a road, and someone stops who just doesn’t “feel right,” she declines by saying she prefers to walk on for a while.
She says some of the most helpful are truck drivers, who are always polite and obliging. She has a cell phone, of course, and can call for help if needed, and she calls her mother every day.
She says she tries to avoid cities and larger towns, and state law prohibits walking along Interstate highways.
“And anyway,” she says, “I have faith that God is looking out for me.”
Delfina says she’s going to L.A. to pursue an acting career. She’s already been an extra in the film, “When In Rome,” which stars Danny DeVito, Anjelica Huston and Kristin Bell. The movie comes out next year.
Her adventures on the road might make a pretty good movie in itself.
It could be dangerous out there. If ya a praying person, will ya please keep this young lady in your prayers. Thanks.