Collecting Memories: Nicola’s Story
At The Wander Club, we are continually moved by the journeys behind our Tokens. Each one carries not only a destination but a story — stories like Nicola C.’s, which remind us what it means to travel with resilience and hope.
In 2021, Nicola’s oldest son finally received an official diagnosis after four years of uncertainty:
“SORD Deficiency. An extremely rare incurable neurological genetic disease...with only about 100 known cases worldwide."
Despite this lifelong challenge, her son never let go of his dream to study in the UK, where Nicola is from, and to explore Europe, city by city.
That dream became reality. He completed his three-year degree in London, and during that time, joined a clinical drug trial with the hope of slowing the disease’s progression.
After graduation, he set out on a 3.5-week backpacking trip across Europe by train.
“I am truly inspired by him and his positivity and determination to see the world despite his challenges.”
For Nicola, the Tokens she collects for him serve as tangible reminders of every city and every victory. They mark not just where he has been, but the courage it took to get there.
As she told us, “I always hope to bring more awareness to rare disease and research in that area.” By sharing their story, we hope to honor that wish — and celebrate a traveler who continues to inspire us all.
Do you have an interesting story behind your collection?
We’d love to hear it. Share your story with us on social @thewanderclub or via email to hi@thewanderclub.com for a chance to be featured.