Jamie Summers and Brent Thomson: Walking the Walk for a great cause

When Project Director Jamie Summers decided to join the Great Wall of China Trek 2025 to raise funds for the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand and Health15, his mate, Business Manager Northern | Director Brent Thomson was the first to step up.

Brent isn’t just walking the Wall; he’s walking for Jamie’s cause, embodying the spirit of “mates supporting mates.” Together, they’re tackling the adventure of a lifetime, shining a spotlight on the importance of health services for construction workers, an industry close to their hearts.

Jamie is a stroke survivor and an ambassador for Health15, a health and wellness initiative co-founded by TBIG and the Stroke Foundation. Health15 delivers essential health checks directly to construction sites, helping workers detect risks like high blood pressure before it’s too late.

By taking on this challenge, Jamie and Brent aim to raise awareness and funds to expand the vital work of Stroke NZ and Health15 in supporting builders across the country.

Says Jamie, “I want to raise awareness about the risk of stroke in young people and inspire fellow survivors.”

Jamie’s Story

“In December, a medical event turned my life and the lives of those close to me upside down. On what seemed like a regular Saturday morning, during a routine chiropractic appointment, I suffered a laceration to an artery that supplies blood to the cerebellum, causing a stroke. This moment marked the beginning of a long and challenging journey, impacting me physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Five years later, I’m proud to say I’m living a relatively normal life. Most importantly, I’m ready to take on a new challenge! Last year, a close friend encouraged me to go tramping on Great Barrier Island. It was something I once thought I’d never be able to do again, but I did it and returned safely! That experience sparked a desire in me to keep pushing boundaries and to show others that there is life after stroke.

This time, I’m taking on an even bigger challenge!”

To make a donation to support Jamie and Brent’s journey, visit thier Grassrootz fundraising page here.

Stroke Foundation New Zealand

The Great Wall of China Trek 2025 is an initiative by the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand to raise funds for stroke prevention and support services. Participants will embark on a nine-day journey in May 2025, traversing ancient pathways, scaling historic watchtowers, and experiencing breathtaking mountain views along the Great Wall. This adventure will gather like-minded supporters contributing to life-changing efforts in stroke prevention and after-stroke care.

Health15

Health15 is a joint not-for-profit initiative established by the Stroke Foundation and The Building Intelligence Group. It provides free on-site health checks and services to busy construction workers, allowing them to receive essential health assessments without taking time off work. The program focuses on offering 15-minute health checks, including blood pressure measurements and stroke prevention advice, directly at construction sites.

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