A loving mum’s legacy in every step

Every step taken in the Walk to Defeat MND helps fund vital work that supports people affected by motor neurone disease today, while building hope for tomorrow.

For Donna McKay the Walk to Defeat MND is deeply personal. Her beloved mum, Delia, was diagnosed with MND, and Donna was by her side from the very first signs of the illness until her death from MND. This was a profoundly challenging and emotional experience for her family.

A loving mum’s legacy

“My mum was a very loving, kind-hearted woman and always thinking of others before herself. She was a strong woman of faith, and no matter what she was going through in life, she would always put God first,” says Donna.

Her mum always taught Donna and her family to have faith, to love, forgive and never give up.

A tough journey  

“Being on that journey with her showed me just how much people living with MND – and their families – need support. Each walk is more than just a fundraising event – it’s a personal journey, a show of solidarity, and a way to honour those we’ve lost, that’s why raising awareness and funding research is so important,” she says.  

“We need to find a cure. But more than that, we need to let people affected by MND know that they are not alone. We care, and we’re here to help in whatever way we can.” 

For Donna, the walk itself is a reflection of her mother’s generosity and kindness. Coming together for this worthy cause and making a positive impact, really reflects who her Mum was. She always put others first, and this walk carries that same spirit.

Help power support and research through the Walk to Defeat MND

By taking part in the Walk to Defeat MND, you’re helping fund initiatives that improve understanding of MND, strengthen advocacy, support better care, and enable research that brings us closer to effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

Whether you walk, donate, or support a participant, your contribution means our MND NZ Regional Support Advisors can continue to offer tailored support to people living with MND and their families throughout Aotearoa. Find out more here: mnd.org.nz/support-information/our-services/support-team/

Sign up to join the Walk to Defeat MND: www.mndwalk.org.nz