Supreme Achievers - Asthma 2011

Congratulations to our 2011 Supreme Achievers

For photos of all our Achievers check out our Facebook page 

Maori Asthma 5-12 -  Morrell-Wilson (Tainui), aged 10 years, Hastings. 

Harlem has spent a lot of time in and out of hospital as a result of severe asthma and numerous other life threatening medical conditions.  But these have never stopped him from participating in school-life.  He plays hockey, t-ball, touch rugby and ripper rugby; races and cross country.  Despite all obstacles, Harlem never complains.  He monitors and manages his asthma and allergies and works extremely hard with all aspects of schooling.  And whilst he may miss considerable periods of schooling when receiving surgery or treatment, he keeps up with his peers academically.  Harley’s Principal describes him as a fantastic role model to others and a wonderful boy deserving of the ‘big pat on the back’ that this award will provide. 

 Maori Asthma 12-18 - Joshua Nicholls (Ngati Kahungunu), aged 12 years, Westport. 

Joshua has had asthma and skin allergies since infancy.  School life has been interrupted with many hospital admissions with asthma.  Until recently he allowed his mother to monitor and manage the asthma.  But this changed 18 months ago when Joshua decided to take control himself.  He now manages the asthma with regular medication that he takes without reminders.  He also enrolled himself in the swimming club which has improved his fitness and lung capacity.  As a result his self confidence has developed, he now takes a lead role in most school activities, and is a role model and mentor for younger asthmatics.  When his mother was unwell with asthma this year, Joshua assumed extra responsibilities at home, even calling the ambulance when required.  Joshua is an exceptional young man taking an active role in his asthma management, highlighting the positive impacts of his decision.

 Open 5-12 - Nathan Brown, aged 11 years, Auckland. 

 An incredible young man, Nathan told his mum ‘Asthma doesn’t stop you from doing anything Mum!’ Clearly he lives by this motto.  Despite having asthma and severe food allergies including anaphylaxis, Nathan lives life to the fullest. An excellent student, Nathan competes in school netball and cross country, is a member of the choir, learns guitar, is student council member and class leader, buddies the younger children and has achieved distinction in the Australian Maths Exam (top 4% in NZ) three times.  He is ranked top for his age in diving in New Zealand!  Nathan works with his GP, hospital staff and family, taking great care and responsibility with his management plan.  An outstanding young man, Nathan is a deserving recipient. 

 Open 13-18 - Mathew Myers, aged 16 years, Auckland

Mathew’s asthma was not diagnosed until he was 7 years old.  Until then he battled recurrent chest infections and breathlessness, made worse by cold temperatures and pollens.  Mathew started swimming when his doctor suggested that it was the best sports option.  But the pool chemicals and cold temperatures outside would still trigger exacerbations.  Mathew’s performance was erratic and coaches would become frustrated with him.  After one particularly bad asthmatic episode, Mathew’s mum took him to see a Respiratory Specialist.  Things fell into place.  The doctor increased his preventer dose, provided an action plan and referred Mathew to learn breathing techniques.  He has never looked back, winning medals at National Age Group swimming meets and being selected to train at the Millennium Institute of Sport and Health.  His coaches describe him as an exceptional swimmer with potential to represent New Zealand in the future.  Mathew says he just loves being in the water!

 Open Adult - Oringa Barach, aged 64 years, Whangarei

 Oringa has had asthma since childhood and remembers being treated with Ephidrine and a hand-made aerosol.  Today she keeps on top of her asthma with medication delivered by more practical daily inhalers.  More importantly, Oringa and her whanau believe that her wellbeing is the result of a healthy attitude to asthma, never letting it stop her from enjoying work, sport and family. Oringa aims high.  She is currently a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Diabetes.  She also trains and competes in multi-sport events, the high point being in 2007 when she competed at the World Ironman Champs in Kona, Hawaii in the 60-64 age group.  The lon