Raeshell Staltare is an avid hiker – and even better – she shares her love, knowledge and support of hiking with our Coastrek community. What more can you ask for from a Community Ambassador? Raeshell is dedicated to her training and often shares her tips while she’s out and about walking Sydney’s coastline. She will take part in her fifth Coastrek in 2024 – but her journey to even get to the start line is one of tenacity and strength – and truly inspiring:
When Raeshell signed up for Coastrek, she felt like her life was spiraling out of control. Following a series of life challenges, including a relationship breakdown and a redundancy in a job she loved, the single mum felt alone and isolated. She didn’t know who she was anymore.
Raeshell signed up for the 60km Coastrek challenge to get back into trekking and to focus on something just for her.
But life wasn’t finished testing Raeshell…
She was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and was riddled with blood clots and lucky to be alive. She underwent crucial surgery just four months out from Event Day.
Despite an array of health challenges, hardships, and injuries, Raeshell and Team Sole Sistas crossed the Coastrek finish line in March 2021, together.
‘I walked away from that event feeling like I’d achieved something.’
If one challenge wasn’t enough, the cancer survivor took on the Melbourne 60km Coastrek challenge just two months later. For Raeshell, Coastrek was more than fun, fitness and fundraising. It brought her the sense of community she’d be longing for.
‘For the first time in so long, I felt a sense of belonging.’
Her next goal? To take on every other Coastrek challenge in Australia.
