Asthma Foundation seeks Breathtaking Role Models

Media Release 20 June 2007
Asthma and Respiratory Foundation of NZ (Inc.)

Asthma Foundation seeks Breathtaking Role Models

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation is pleased to announce that nominations for the biennial Asthma and Respiratory Achievers’ Awards are now open. Who do you know that is remarkable, and when was the last time you told them? This is your chance to help a special person shine.

Over 800,000 New Zealanders with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or other respiratory illnesses could be eligible for nomination for the Awards. However Jane Patterson, Executive Director of the Foundation, says that the Foundation is searching for a special type of person.

“We're looking for remarkable people with respiratory disease who have a story to tell about overcoming hardships associated with their condition. People who inspire us by working towards their goals, despite the extra challenges they face.”

“They are people who do their best to manage their respiratory condition, rather than letting their condition manage them," she said.

Two of the most impressive features of the campaign are that every single nominee is acknowledged, and eight Supreme Achievers will be awarded their certificates at a special ceremony in Wellington.

A SPARC Supreme Achievers’ Award will be awarded to honour two nominees who recognise the importance of physical activity in the management of their respiratory illness.

The Foundation also considers that it is important to offer both Maori and general categories for the awards. Statistics show that whilst Maori have the same rates of asthma as non-Maori, the occurrence of severe asthma in comparison is frightening.

Supreme Achievers from the last Asthma and Respiratory Achievers’ Awards are Deirdre Lack from Te Puke; Caleb McIntosh from Oamaru; Dylan Wellacott from Auckland; Marie Storey from Raumati; Frank Wilson from Rotorua; Olga Wolfgramme from Kaikohe; and Rangi Eria from Naenae.

We are also very sad to announce that the Supreme Achiever in the Maori Children’s category, Cody Forbes from Turangi, passed away on 31 May 2007 shortly following his 16th birthday. Cody’s grace, strength of spirit, humour, and deep love for his whanau, touched everyone who met him.

To learn more about the our current Supreme Achievers, please visit the Foundation’s website www.asthmafoundation.org.nz

If you know someone who manages their condition in such a way that they set an example for others, the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation would love to hear from you! To make a nomination, please visit the Foundation's website www.asthmafoundation.org.nz or call 04-499-4592. Nominations close on 15 September 2007.

ENDS

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