Donna’s Walk to Defeat MND: Honouring Her Mum’s Legacy

Across Aotearoa, communities are coming together for the Walk to Defeat MND, raising vital awareness and funds for those affected by motor neurone disease (MND). 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.

For Donna McKay, this walk 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 passing. Now, she has organised the Rakaia Walk to Defeat MND in her mother’s memory, hoping to unite people—just as Delia always did—while making a lasting difference in the fight against MND.

A Mother’s Love and Legacy

“My mum was a very loving, kind-hearted woman, always thinking of others before herself,” Donna shares. “She was a strong woman of faith, and no matter what she was going through in life, she always put God first. What made her special to us, her children, was that no matter how old we were, in her eyes, we were always still her babies. She taught us to have faith, to love, to forgive, and to never give up.”

It was this unwavering spirit that inspired Donna to take action in her mother’s name, ensuring her love and kindness would continue to impact others even after her passing.

A Walk to Bring People Together

When Donna heard about Walk to Defeat MND events taking place across the country, she saw an opportunity to do something meaningful in her mother’s honour.

“Mum loved bringing people together. She would always find an excuse to have a get-together, making sure there was plenty of food and music—especially country music. So, when I learned about these walks, I thought, why not have one here in our little town of Rakaia? It’s the perfect way to raise awareness and funds while doing what Mum loved most: bringing people together with food, music, and fun.”

A Journey That Inspired Action

Watching her mother’s battle with MND from the very first signs of the disease until the end was a profoundly challenging and emotional experience for Donna. But rather than let grief consume her, she has channelled it into a mission to support others.

“Being on that journey with her showed me just how much people living with MND—and their families—need support. That’s why raising awareness and funding research is so important. 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.”

Community Support and Shared Strength

The response to the Rakaia walk has been overwhelming, with the community rallying behind Donna’s efforts.

“The support has been amazing. People have been so willing to help in any way they can. The positive comments and encouragement I’ve received have been deeply moving.”

For Donna, the walk itself is a reflection of her mother’s generosity and kindness.

“Just coming together for this worthy cause, knowing that we’re making a positive impact, really reflects who Mum was. She always put others first, and this walk carries that same spirit.”

Spreading Awareness: ‘Awareness Changes Lives’

Donna hopes that those taking part in the walk—and the wider community—come away with a greater understanding of what MND is and how it affects people’s lives.

“A very important message I want people to take away from this event is that ‘awareness changes lives.’ People need to know about MND, understand it, and see the devastation and emotional toll it takes on those diagnosed and their families.”

The process of organising the walk has been both emotional and rewarding for Donna, with one of the most moving moments being the willingness of so many people to step up and help.

“Seeing how everyone was ready and willing to support this event gave me a real sense of gratitude and unity. It’s a reminder of how powerful a community can be when it comes together for a shared cause.”

A Walk That Will Continue

Although this is the first Walk to Defeat MND in Rakaia, Donna is determined that it won’t be the last.

“I definitely see this becoming a yearly event. Raising awareness and funds for MND can’t stop here. This is just the beginning.”

As she prepares for the walk, Donna is filled with a sense of pride—not just in what she’s achieved, but in the memory of the woman who inspired it all.

“What makes me most proud is being able to keep Mum’s memory alive. I know she would be smiling down from Heaven, knowing that this event is helping people. That’s what she loved to do—help others.”

Join the Walk to Defeat MND in Rakaia

Donna’s story is a powerful reminder of how love, resilience, and community can turn loss into action. By taking part in the Rakaia Walk to Defeat MND, you’ll be joining Donna in honouring her mum’s memory while making a real difference for those affected by MND.

To find out more and register for the walk, visit www.mndwalk.org.nz