Why I’m Sweating with Pride

Once again, I'm taking on Sweat with Pride this June 💦🌈

This year, I almost wasn't going to. Despite optimistically signing up a few months ago, I was diagnosed with an acute heart condition in February.

My heart condition was bracketed by bouts of horrible respiratory illness either side. I haven't been healthy for all of 2025.

My heart condition still hasn't completely cleared up, so my physical fitness isn't where it used to be. But. This kaupapa matters. 

Even though I can't get absolutely shredded or lift weights right now, I can still do my bit to support rainbow communities.

And boy oh boy, do rainbow communities sure need our support!

Right now, schools, workplaces, and even doctors’ offices aren’t safe for many rainbow folks. LGBTQIA+ Kiwis face higher rates of mental illness, suicide, and STIs like syphilis, mpox, and HIV. Trans whānau in particular are facing incredible stress at the erosion of basic himan rights globally.

So, I'm fighting discrimination with perspiration—exercising 21 minutes every day in June to raise money for life-changing Rainbow support services.

This cause means the world to me, and I’d be incredibly grateful if you could chip in to help me reach my goal. Every dollar makes a difference.

Thank you so much for your support! ❤️