Walking for a cause: Jeremy Benton’s mission to defeat MND

For Jeremy Benton, the Walk to Defeat MND isn’t just another fundraising event—it’s a personal journey. Every year, he dedicates countless hours to ensuring the Christchurch walk is a success, helping to unite people in support of those affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND). His motivation? Honouring the memory of his grandfather, who passed away from the disease in 2009.

“Pop’s passing was a major part of what inspired me to get involved,” Jeremy says. “When you see someone you love go through this disease, you feel powerless. It’s relentless—it takes away mobility, speech, and independence. That feeling of helplessness stuck with me, and I wanted to do something that could actually help.”

Jeremy, 29, balances his role at BCITO—where he helps professional and amateur athletes gain trade qualifications—with his long-standing commitment to MND NZ. His involvement began in 2015 after a conversation with the NZ Cricket Players’ Association led him to seek out a charity with a personal connection.

“They suggested finding something meaningful, and MND NZ just made sense. Since then, I’ve never looked back,” he says. “It’s been a privilege to be part of something that truly makes a difference.”

A role that grew with the cause

What started as a small volunteer role quickly grew into something much bigger.

“I began as a committee member, just helping with planning and logistics,” Jeremy explains. “Over the years, I’ve taken on more responsibility, and now I coordinate the entire Christchurch walk. That means organising volunteers, handling logistics, making sure everything runs smoothly, and, most importantly, helping create a day that feels meaningful for everyone attending.”

While much of the planning is done by the Auckland-based MND NZ team, Jeremy plays a crucial role in ensuring the event is executed on the day.

“The team in Auckland do an amazing job pulling everything together, and my role is to make sure things happen smoothly here in Christchurch. From working with volunteers to setting up the route in Hagley Park, I’m there to make sure everything goes to plan,” he says.

More than just a walk

For Jeremy, the Walk to Defeat MND is about so much more than fundraising.

“The walk is about more than just raising money,” he says. “It’s about connection. It’s about bringing people together who understand what it’s like to be affected by MND. It’s a space where people can share their experiences, support one another, and feel like they’re not alone.”

Jeremy has seen firsthand how powerful these moments can be.

“Some people come because they’ve lost a loved one and want to honour their memory. Others are currently battling MND, and for them, this walk is a way to show they’re still fighting. And then you’ve got the friends and family who just want to do something—anything—to help. It’s amazing to see so many people come together for this cause.”

Each year, the walk brings a mix of emotions.

“There’s sadness, of course, because MND is such a cruel disease, but there’s also this incredible sense of hope and togetherness,” Jeremy says. “People find comfort in knowing they’re not alone, and that’s what makes this event so special.”

Moments that matter

Every year, a moment reminds Jeremy exactly why he continues to be involved.

“There have been so many special moments over the years,” he says. “Last year, after everything was packed up, I just sat for a minute and took it all in. Watching people connect, seeing the hugs, the shared stories—it really hit me how important this is.”

And it’s not just the people participating in the walk who make an impact—it’s the volunteers, too.

“We have such an amazing group of volunteers,” Jeremy says. “Everyone chips in, whether it’s helping with registration, setting up the course, or just making sure everyone feels welcome. It’s a team effort, and I couldn’t do it without them.”

The setting in Christchurch adds to the atmosphere.

“It’s mid to late summer, so we usually get great weather,” Jeremy says. “Walking through Hagley Park with this incredible group of people, all here for the same reason—it’s powerful.”

This year’s walk coincides with the Electric Avenue Music Festival, adding a unique backdrop to the event.

“We might even have some tunes in the background this year,” Jeremy laughs.

Why he keeps coming back

Despite the effort involved, Jeremy returns year after year with the same passion.

“The Walk to Defeat MND is a reminder to make every day count,” he says. “It’s a way to honour my Pop and do something meaningful for families facing this disease. Volunteering feels like the least I can do.”

And while the event raises vital funds for support and research, Jeremy believes it’s about something even bigger.

“It’s about showing people they’re not alone,” he says. “You see how much it means to those living with MND and their families. Hopefully, each year we reach more people and make an even greater impact.”

An open invitation

Jeremy wants to see as many people as possible get involved, whether by walking, volunteering, or supporting in other ways.

“I’d love to see more people get involved,” he says. “If you’re in Christchurch or Canterbury, come and be part of it. Even if you’re not directly affected by MND, your support means so much to those who are.”

For anyone considering volunteering, Jeremy has some words of encouragement.

“Volunteering is way less overwhelming than people think,” he says. “You’re part of an amazing team—especially Rob Bloch, who does an outstanding job coordinating everything. If you’re passionate about the cause, you’ll find it so rewarding.”

And it’s not just about one day—Jeremy believes the momentum from the walk can carry through the whole year.

“There’s an opportunity to take the energy from this event and use it to keep pushing for more awareness, more support, and more research funding,” he says. “Every little bit helps.”

Join the movement – Walk to Defeat MND

The Walk to Defeat MND brings people together to honour loved ones, raise awareness, and fund vital support services.

“I’d love to see more people get involved,” Jeremy says. “Whether it’s walking, volunteering, or just showing up to support, every step we take together brings us closer to making a real impact for people living with MND.”

Sign up today and be part of the Walk to Defeat MND: www.mndwalk.org.nz