Arthritis NZ Volunteer recognised for 30+ years of service

2 June 2014

Arthritis New Zealand Volunteer recognised for over 30 years of service to people with arthritis!

Arthritis New Zealand is absolutely delighted that Kathleen (Kathie) Smith has been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours with the award of an ONZM.

“This award recognises Kathie’s commitment to people with arthritis both within the health system and in the community,” Alan Henwood, the President of Arthritis New Zealand, said today. “She has been instrumental in ensuring that the organisation provides world class services for people with arthritis. Under her guidance the organisation has evolved from a group that served its own members to one that now provides over 30,000 client contacts annually.”

Kathie was first introduced to the services of Arthritis New Zealand, as a Ward Sister working in the Rheumatology Ward, Middlemore Hospital in the 1980’s. Since that time she has had over 30 years continuous service with the organisation at both national and regional level.

Arthritis New Zealand recognised Kathie’s service with a Distinguished Service Award in 1994 and Honorary Life Membership in 1998. She also received a Ministry of Health Volunteer and Long Service award in 2013 from the Hon Tony Ryall.

Kathie has also worked alongside other professional bodies in the field of arthritis. In 1985 she was instrumental in establishing the NZ Health Professionals in Rheumatology group.

This award is particularly relevant just a few weeks ahead of Volunteer Awareness Week.

ENDS

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