Turia Pitt Travels from Sydney, NSW

While the story of Turia's survival involves many people - other race competitors, her rescuers, medical professionals - at its core is the strong will of Turia herself as she continues the long rehabilitation process with the loving support of her partner, Michael Hoskin, and that of their families where the local community has rallied, raising funds to help with huge medical bills.  

Her book “Everything to Live For” is the story of one young woman's survival against extraordinary odds, a testament to the human spirit.  It is also a love story. Michael, Turia's handsome teenage crush who became the love of her life, now cares for her as they plan a new life together; he is there to encourage Turia in her determination to move forward in an outwardly different body.  The real tragedy of this story is that it should never have happened - because the race should never have happened.  

In 2016, Turia has competed in her first IRONMAN competition, and is releasing a new book and an online motivational program as well as walk the Kokoda trail to raise money for Interplast, a not for profit organisation that she is closely aligned to. Turia has raised close to $1 million since she began working with the organisation several years ago.  

This engaging and refreshingly candid young woman will astonish you, inspire you and leave you in stitches. Her enthralling message of overcoming adversity and the need to never EVER give up will motivate you … out of your chair, and into life. The standing ovation Turia was given at her TED talk is a testament to her skills as an orator. Turia’s motto ‘never ever give up’ resonates with people from all walks of life – anyone, anywhere, who refuses to be limited by circumstance. She is a true and profound inspiration to all those she meets.