Walking Hadrian's Wall for Menopause Awareness

Hi, I'm Rupa Ark.

By day, I'm a Senior Sales Director in the Life Sciences industry. I'm also a leadership coach, mentor, advocate for women from diverse backgrounds and, if you follow me on LinkedIn, a proud Selfie Queen. 📸

This September, I'm joining four other equally crazy women to take on an 84-mile trek along Hadrian's Wall over 8 days.

Since March, we've trained hard, clocking up hundreds of miles and plenty of elevation along the way. There have been early mornings, aching legs, plenty of laughs and more than a few moments where we questioned whose bright idea this was!

What I've learned over the last few months is that walking and chatting is one of life's simplest pleasures.

Give me a decent route, good company and a conversation that starts with "How are you?" and somehow ends three hours later, and I'm happy.

There is something incredibly powerful about women walking together, talking openly, sharing experiences and reminding each other that we're not alone.

As a post-menopausal woman, this challenge is about much more than walking.

I've experienced first-hand the impact menopause can have on wellbeing, confidence and everyday life. One of the symptoms I've found most challenging has been anxiety, and walking has become one of the most powerful tools for supporting both my mental and physical health.

I'm using this adventure, and a good dose of Soft Power, to raise awareness of menopause and support conversations that help women feel seen, heard and understood.

I'm also raising funds for Menopause Café, a wonderful local initiative that provides a safe and welcoming space for women to come together, share experiences and talk openly about all things menopause.

Every donation, however small, will help support this important work. And if you're not able to donate, sharing my page would mean the world.

If this challenge helps just one woman feel less alone, then every blister, hill and mile will have been worth it.

Thank you for your support.

Rupa x 💜🥾🎒🕶️

84 miles | 8 days | 5 women | One important conversation

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