Local doctor to trek Mount Everest for GBV awareness

Dr Yakshen Lindy from Bedfordview hopes to summit Mount Everest in April as he embarks on a journey to raise awareness against gender-based violence (GBV).

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He will be trekking the mountain for the NPO, Impilo Foundation.

One of his patients introduced him to the foundation and he has formed a partnership with them for about a year.

Lindy believes men need to speak up against GBV, which is often perpetrated by men and rooted in harmful gender norms and unequal power relations.

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He said being in the medical profession and previously working in a maxillofacial trauma unit in Mpumalanga, he often saw the consequence of facial trauma.

“I believe we need to challenge these norms and promote healthier, more equitable relationships between men and women.

“Everyone, regardless of their gender, has a responsibility to speak out against any form of violence or discrimination.”

GBV affects not only women but also men, children, and people of all genders and backgrounds.

“However, women and girls are disproportionately affected by this issue, with statistics showing that one in three women globally will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime,” explained Lindy.

He said it is not enough to simply not be a perpetrator of violence.

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“People must actively work to prevent violence and support survivors by educating themselves and others, promoting respectful and consensual relationships and advocating policy changes that prioritise the safety and well-being of all individuals.”

The 37-year-old has been an oral surgeon for 13 years and has had his dental practice in Bedfordview for five years.

“Ultimately, standing up for GBV awareness is not just a matter of supporting women and girls but it is about creating a safer and more just world for everyone.

“As a man, I am committed to doing my part in this work and hope others will join me in this important cause.”

Though he has done something similar in the past, the doctor isn’t taking this challenge lightly.

He trains Mondays to Sundays from 04:00 to 07:00 and in the evenings from 18:30 to 20:00.

He says climbing a mountain requires both physical and mental preparation, as it is a daunting task.

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“Physically, I’m focusing on building my endurance and strength through a combination of cardio, electro-muscle stimulation and strength training exercises, with particular emphasis on lung function.

“Mentally, I’m working on developing a positive attitude and a strong mental focus.

“I visualise myself successfully reaching the summit and reminding myself of the reasons I want to climb this mountain.

“I’m also reading books and watching videos about other people’s experiences of climbing similar mountains to gain insights and prepare myself mentally for the challenges ahead.

“Overall, I believe a combination of physical and mental preparation is key to conquering the challenge of climbing any mountain,” he said.

His fears are altitude sickness, which according to him, can be life-threatening. He said he was also worried about the extreme cold and the risk of frostbite or hypothermia.

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“I’ve been training for months to make sure I’m in the best possible shape. I’m also working with experienced guides and taking all the necessary precautions, such as bringing the right equipment and supplies, to minimise the risks.

“While there are certain risks involved in climbing Mount Everest, I believe the rewards of pushing myself to the limit and achieving such an incredible feat will make it all worth it.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge and can’t wait to see what I’m capable of,” stated Lindy.

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