Help us to keep The Billy Guyton Foundation operational.

$8,345 of $20,000 goal
Given by 103 generous donors in 12 weeks

After the loss of Shane Christie, we need to get BGF back up and running to continue his mission of advocating for CTE sufferers.

Nelson

In May 2023, former professional rugby player Billy Guyton Died tragically after years of struggling with the effects of repeated concussions. After his passing, he became the first professional rugby player diagnosed posthumously (NZ) with Stage 2 CTE, a brain disease caused by repeated head trauma.

Billy’s close friend and teammate Shane Christie, who had also battled post-concussion syndrome and suspected CTE for nearly a decade, founded the Billy Guyton Foundation (BGF). Shane poured in his own money and energy while struggling himself, determined to make sure others wouldn’t suffer alone as he and Billy had.

Shane advocated loudly for change, but tragically, on 27 August 2025, he too lost his life to the devastating effects of suspected CTE.

Right now, our focus is to : To support people in Aotearoa living with concussion TBI and suspected CTE to access treatment and recovery options that aren’t covered by ACC including hormone therapy, biofeedback, and holistic care. All funds raised will go directly towards helping people receive the care they need and deserve. We are an Incorporated Charitable Trust NZBN 9429052636806 and are in the process of registering as a charity so we can grow this mahi and reach more whānau in need.

Your koha helps us keep this kaupapa alive for Billy, for Shane, and for everyone fighting the same fight they once did.

Ngā mihi nui for standing with us 💙

Coutrney Hayford's involvement (page creator)

I am a friend of Shane, Billy, Holly and Tori. I want to do all I can to share Shane and Billy's legacy and see the Billy Guyton Foundation support impacted people.

Use of funds

All proceeds will go towards getting the charity officially registered and running. and to help people with sports-related head injuries like Billy and Shane, who often haven't had access to the care they needed.

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Latest update

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AROHANUI 💚  15 November 2025

Posted by: Billy's Sister Tori Guyton

Thank you to everyone donating. Your support is helping us continue building the BGF so we can educate, raise awareness, and help people get the support and treatment they need. We’re so grateful to you all 🙌🙏

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Latest donations

Ray White Richmond
Ray White Richmond on 25 Nov 2025
“A Little Ray of Giving" kindly requested by Lauri and Jason
$500
Jackie & KK
Jackie & KK on 21 Nov 2025
$200
Florence
Florence on 18 Nov 2025
Keep growing
Private
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 15 Nov 2025
$20
Edel & Nic
Edel & Nic on 10 Nov 2025
$200

Who's involved?

Coutrney Hayford's avatar
Created by Coutrney Hayford
Billy's Sister Tori Guyton's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Billy's Sister Tori Guyton on behalf of The Billy Guyton Foundation
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This campaign started on 18 Sep 2025 and ends on 18 Sep 2026.