Libby Taylor and Kate Hattaway, sexual abuse survivors themselves, have decided that rather than dwelling on the past, they would use their life experiences, energy and determination in a positive way.
Libby and Kate will begin their 2,100km journey – The REOSA Walk – on October 1st 2022, starting in Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua and ending in Bluff mid-November.
The REOSA Walk is an initiative to create hope, dispel loneliness and encourage understanding by raising awareness about the negative ripple effects of sexual abuse. It includes 30 Supporter Walks throughout the country where people can join these two brave women in raising awareness, plus support other survivors on their healing journeys.
The Reosa Team has created a handbook with support from HELP Auckland, Keeping Our Tamariki Safe from Sexual Harm. This is a resource to educate, empower and support all parents, grandparents and caregivers. There is a copy of this handbook on their website.
Both Libby and Kate believe there needs to be serious change in our country. By highlighting this issue in a public forum through The REOSA Walk, it is their hope to give other survivors the courage to speak up and start healing; and for those hearing survivors stories, the courage to listen and believe.