#London #United Kingdom #Tutors International #tsunami survivors #Hands Across the Water

A Journey of Hope: Two Tsunami Survivors Ride through Thailand

In an inspiring act of resilience and compassion, two private tutors, Erin Lashmar and Steve Hill, are retracing the devastating path of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami by cycling 800 kilometers through Thailand. This epic journey is not only a personal return to the place where their lives changed forever but also a charity initiative to raise funds for children affected by natural disasters.

A Moment Forever Etched in Memory

Both Lashmar and Hill were young travelers in Thailand when the tsunami struck, claiming lives and altering countless families forever. While Lashmar found herself in Phuket, Steve narrowly escaped death when he managed to get into a pickup truck just before the wave crashed into the shore. "A gold Toyota Hilux came around the corner, and I shouted, 'A five-meter wave is coming, like, run!'" Hill recalls, the terrifying urgency of that moment still fresh in his mind. In their efforts to ensure safety, they pulled as many people as they could into the truck bed.

Lashmar's experience in Phuket was equally harrowing. She reflects on the chaotic scene, describing how she helped survivors, particularly children who were lost and injured, while others awaited news of their missing parents. "I thought that perhaps my only role could be to offer some distraction to the children around me," she noted.

Returning to Thailand: A Meaningful Mission

This charity bike ride marks their first return to Thailand since that fateful day. Both Lashmar and Hill firmly expressed that coming back in a meaningful way—through this charity initiative—was essential for them. They aim to support Hands Across the Water (HATW), a charity that has provided ongoing assistance to those impacted by the tsunami, evolving from initial relief efforts into comprehensive support for over 350 children across Thailand.

The eight-day bike ride will cover significant locations from Bangkok to Khao Lak, retracing their memories and paying tribute to the strength of those who endured the tsunami's aftermath. As they embark on this journey, they hope to raise AU$1 million for HATW, an organization founded by Peter Baines, a first responder during the disaster. HATW not only aids immediate survivors but has expanded its mission to offer educational opportunities up to the university level.

Support from Tutors International

Adam Caller, CEO of Tutors International who is sponsoring their ride, commented on their initiative: "Erin and Steve are exceptional tutors and we're delighted to support them. Their cause is deeply emotional, and we're honored to be part of their journey."

With the help of generosity from individuals and organizations, both Lashmar and Hill are setting up fundraising pages to collect donations. Their efforts symbolize hope and a reminder that challenging circumstances can inspire change and support for future generations.

To support this admirable cause, visit their fundraising pages: Erin's Fundraising Page and Steve's Fundraising Page.

The Impact of Hands Across the Water

Since its inception, HATW has raised over AU$35 million, transforming the lives of more than 1,000 children, highlighting its commitment to long-term empowerment. In recent years, it has successfully facilitated the graduation of 32 university students and has launched a traineeship program through its social enterprise. The organization's sustainable initiatives aim to enrich education, healthcare, and community development across Thailand, fostering brighter futures.

This charity cycling event serves as a poignant reminder of the power of human connection and the strength required to overcome adversity. For Lashmar and Hill, it is a chance to give back, inspire hope, and create opportunity for children affected by disasters like the one they endured two decades ago.