Epic ride for an epic cause

Andrea Turkovic is raising money for Lady Talk Matters
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Absa Cape Epic · 19 March 2023

Lady Talk Matters is a global charity that aims to improve lives by normalising menstrual health and reproductive matters. This is achieved through education, awareness, inspiration, and support. Young women and all those who menstruate are not always adequately informed about matters relating to their menstual and reproductive health, specifically the need for screenings such as cervical smears and information about menstrual conditions such as endometriosis. There is a global need for improved menstrual health education, removing the taboo around discussing women’s reproductive functions, and improving access to period products. One of the main focus areas of Lady Talk Matters is providing education on menstrual and reproductive health to young pupilis in a fun an interactive way. The syllabus is aligned with global curriculums and presented in a straightforward and factual manner. The taboo around menstruation begins at this early age when boys and girls are separated during Life Orientation or sex education classes at school. It reinforces the impression that women’s reproductive health matters are shameful and secretive. By providing education to both boys and girls, this taboo can be removed to allow for open conversation. Together with this education, Lady Talk Matters works to ensure that basic period products are provided to women and girls in need. They skill, train and employ ladies to manufacture re-usable period pads. For just £5 or the equivalent in your

Story

Bonded by our love of sport and our desire to push our limits, we are taking on the gruelling Absa Cape Epic. It is an eight-day stage race in South Africa that covers 658km off road and 15775m of ascent. It’s often referred to as the Tour de France of Mountain Bike (MTB) racing. It is one of the toughest and most televised MTB races in the world. It’s a daunting challenge given the difficulty of the terrain, the tough climbs, and steep descents and not least the summer heat of the Cape. 

We had talked about 'one day' doing this challenge together, but this 'one day' has come sooner than we anticipated! Unfortunately, the previous half of the duo, Richard, has torn his ACL and is no longer able to ride. At very short notice and with a bit of arm twisting, we present ourselves - Andrea and Steffen, aka team ChamRocks. 

We met through a mutual friend and instantly knew we would become great friends - let's hope this ride doesn't test our friendship! 

Having both been diagnosed with cancer in our 30's we share a passion for living life and helping others. We are riding to support Lady Talk Matters keep women and girls in work and school during their menstrual periods. In South Africa 30% of girls miss 27 days of school year because of their periods and can't afford basic sanitary products. That is nearly 15% of the school year! 

Our fundraising target is $15,775 – one dollar for every meter of ascent during the race. By hitting our target, you will help Lady Talk Matters support over 3000 girls.

We are truly grateful for your support –small or large. It gives our sweat and toil a real meaning. 

Andrea & Steffen. 

Donation summary

Total
US$24,378.52
Online
US$23,928.52
Offline
US$450.00

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