The Walk to Defeat MND Gold Coast is on 23 March from 9AM at Hollindale Park. It is an opportunity for the community to come together and support a loved one living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) or to pay tribute to someone they’ve lost to this devastating condition by walking or rolling 2km to 4 km. Our Walk Champions, Melissa and Chris Todd, will lead our walk this year.
What is a Walk Champion?
We know MND has directly impacted many in our community, which is why our wonderful community choose to make a difference. Their ongoing commitment to making a positive impact is commendable, and we've introduced the Walk Champion initiative to celebrate people that really go the extra mile!
Before each Walk, we ask a family or individual in our community who is participating for a loved one living with MND or is honouring those they've lost to this devastating condition to be Walk Champion. The Walk Champion intentionally leads our Sea of Blue, and we'll share their wholehearted reasons for walking.
Introducing Melissa and Chris from Team Toddy
Melissa, Chris, and their family have endured the heartbreaking effects of MND multiple times. In December 2022, both their father, Ray Todd, and Uncle Pete were diagnosed just six weeks apart. Sadly, Pete passed away in June 2023, and Ray followed in October 2024. In addition, other extended family members have been diagnosed or are suspected to have been affected by Motor Neurone Disease, bringing the total number of loved ones who have fought this cruel illness to five.
But Ray refused to let MND take away his spirit. Instead of giving in, he faced the disease with unwavering strength and humour, making it his mission to support his family and others living with MND. Ray spent his life lifting others up, and even as he fought his own battle, he continued to inspire everyone around him. Through social media and storytelling, Ray’s courage and kindness reached far beyond his family, earning him the title of "the poster boy of terminal illness." In his final hours, over 200 messages poured in, expressing love and gratitude for the incredible impact he had on so many lives.
Left: Ray Todd, right: Team Toddy 2024
In honour of Ray’s incredible legacy, Team Toddy was formed, and they made an extraordinary statement at the 2024 Walk to Defeat MND on the Gold Coast. The team raised an incredible $13,500, with 65 passionate members, earning the title of highest fundraisers and the largest team ever recorded by MND Queensland. Ray’s story of strength, love, and resilience continues to inspire and drive the fight against MND. His spirit lives on, reminding us all that even in the face of the greatest challenges, we can still make a lasting impact.
With this, we name Melissa and Chris Todd of Team Toddy our walk champions for 2025. They are an inspiration and we are so grateful to have them leading the walk.
Highest Fundraiser Individual and Team winners, Ray Todd and loved ones 2024.
Register for the Walk