Stories of change
Stories about our grant recipients and their inspirational adventures.
Introducing: Duncan Grant
Duncan is a Manawatu local who happens to live in Auckland. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago, and he is preparing to complete the 4.6km Rangitoto Ocean Swim.
David Kyle Finishes the Race
David Kyle, the 2022 grant recipient, completes his inspirational goal of finishing the Karapoti Challenge mountain bike race, despite having multiple sclerosis (MS) – a fabulous achievement.
David Kyle
David Kyle, diagnosed with MS in 2020, wants to complete the challenging 20 km Karapoti Classic mountain bike race. We are excited equip him with all he needs to achieve his goal and continue cycling with friends and family long into the future.
Katy Achieves her Mission!
On November 4th 2021, our 2020 Grant Recipient Katy Glenie accomplished her mission to climb the Minarets (3,040 metres) in New Zealand's Southern Alps. The Mastering Mountains team could not be more thrilled for her!
Don’t Dream It, Do It
Katy Glenie is the 2020 Mastering Mountains Grant recipient and she has an exciting goal: to climb the Minarets, a 3,000m peak in the Southern Alps. Here, Katy gives a fun account of a course she attended in preparation for the climb.
Katy Glenie
Mastering Mountains and MSNZ are delighted to introduce the recipient of the 2020 Mastering Mountains Grant, Katy Glenie.
Marlene: Mission Accomplished
On 6th May Marlene Hessing proudly achieved her personal mission of completing the Tiri Tiri Matangi Walk, following an Anzac Day walk on the Leigh Coastal Walkway on Goat Island.
Marlene Hessing
Marlene Hessing was told her Multiple Sclerosis would only get worse and that she would end up in a wheelchair. Now, almost 20 years later, Marlene has taken control of her MS and is determined and strong.
Michelle Gerrits
Michelle was awarded one of the 2017 Mastering Mountains Grants, which has been used to obtain an Alinker Bike. Her aim is to complete a nine-km section of the Great River Ride, from Ngaruawahia to Horotiu, with her family and grandchildren.
Sue Summits Maungatautari
“I walked down the final slope towards the Visitors Centre to clapping and cheering. I was elated and overwhelmed with my achievement, thankful for the support I had from so many people and to be surrounded by such positivity.”