Better Breathing Magazine - Winter 2024

Better Breathing

ICING ON THE CAKE

Our 60th celebration and Respiratory Achievers' Award winners

OUR TEAM CONTENTS

Chief Executive

Letitia Harding

Deputy Chief Executive, Education & Development Manager

Joanna Turner

Office and Donor Appeal Administrator

Christina Goss

Grants & Fundraising Executive

Pam Francombe

PR & Comms Marketing Manager

Chloe Bradwell

Marketing & Communications Advisor

Sam Treseder

Marketing Coordinator

Jack Perris

Māori Community Liaison

Sharon Pihema

Community Liaison Youth Vape Educator

Penelope Joyce

Corporate Sponsorship & Engagement Advisor

Amy-Rose Todd

Corporate Sponsorship & Engagement Advisor

Martin Boland

Medical Director

Prof Bob Hancox, BSc, MB CHb, MRCP, MD, FRACP

Chief Cultural Advisor – Māori

Sir John Clarke, KNZM, CNZM

Letitia's Message

Achievers' Awards Gallery

Achievers' Awards Winners

Hero: Nick Ashill - Update

Hero: Josh Brodie - Josh vs Asthma

Laps for Lungs

Partner: Warmer Kiwi Homes

World Asthma Day Recap

Partner: HRV

COVER: Sir John Clarke and Lady Cathy Clarke cutting the cake at the Foundation's 60th celebrations and 2024 Respiratory Achievers' Awards.

also read this magazine online issuu.com /betterbreathing Thank you to our Friends of the Foundation partners for supporting our ongoing initiatives.

Thank you to Pub Charity Ltd. for their continued support of the Foundation, allowing us to

Letitia’s Message

We hope everyone is getting ready for the cooler months, which means looking after your health, ensuring your flu and COVID vaccinations are up-to-date, and checking your home is winter ready.

Winter is a busy time for the Foundation. We see more and more people downloading the many free resources we offer online to help keep them up-todate with the latest respiratory health information. The theme of this year's World Asthma Day (WAD) was ‘Asthma Education Empowers’ which is why the funds raised went towards upskilling our respiratory healthcare professionals by enrolling them in the e-Fundamentals asthma and COPD online training course. If you know someone who deserves a free enrolment, please let us know (details on page 12).

This May marked a special milestone for the Foundation, as we celebrated our 60th anniversary. We also hosted the 2024 Respiratory Achievers' Awards to recognise people with a respiratory condition who have made notable achievements while managing their condition and living a full and active life.

You can find half of the winners on pages 6 and 7, as well as photos of the 60th anniversary and awards evening on pages 4 and 5.

Once again, I would like to thank G.J. Gardner Homes for supporting the Awards. G.J. Gardner are our Platinum Friends of the Foundation Sponsor, and, like us, want to see people living in warm healthy homes. With over 700,000 people living with a respiratory condition in Aotearoa, there is certainly the need!

You can spot some of our other Friends of the Foundations partners throughout the magazine, and on the Foundation's website.

If you are an organisation that is interested in being a partner, please contact Chloe (chloe@arfnz.org.nz) or Martin (martin@arfnz.org.nz).

Each year, more than 350,000 school days are estimated to be lost to asthma-related symptoms in children and we know these cold winter months can trigger asthma flare-ups. Make sure you download the Child Asthma Action Plan from the Foundation's website and ask your healthcare practitioner to personalise it for you. We also have a downloadable Child Asthma Symptom Diary. All of these are free of charge.

The Foundation recently released a new, free resource - Asthma: Fundamental Information. This is an all-in-one informative booklet for those 12 years and over that can help you to better understand and manage your condition, from recognising the various symptoms and triggers of asthma, to how prescribed asthma medications work. Go to page 15 to find out more.

Our wonderful ambassador Nick Ashill began his epic run across Australia in April. Nick is running across Australia to raise awareness of the Foundation’s work, and the resources we offer to help those suffering with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), bronchiectasis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

To see Nick's amazing Aussie adventures, see page 8.

This message wouldn’t be complete without a shout-out to the mahi we are doing in the vaping educational space from our vaping educational workshops in schools, to our evidence-based advocacy to the Government and Ministry of Health. Our lead Āpiha Takawaenga (Māori Community Liaison) Sharon Pihema and our Tāmaki-Makaurau Youth Vaping Educator Penelope Joyce continue to provide youth vaping educational workshops in schools. To date, they have delivered over 150 workshops around the motu, with another 160 booked for the remainder of the year.

It was a fantastic opportunity to submit on the Australian Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024. The Foundation is a strong supporter of Australia’s prescribed medicine approach to regulating vaping so that it stays out of the hands of youth. We hope that the New Zealand Government follows suit and invests in a similar model.

The Foundation receives no government funding, so all our work is made possible by the generous support from our community funding groups, our donor family, our Friends of the Foundation partners and Kiwis who share our goal of improving respiratory health in Aotearoa. The money raised goes into our essential work providing resources, education, and advocacy on behalf of the 1 in 7 Kiwis with respiratory conditions.

Noho ora mai,

Letitia

Letitia Harding, Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ Chief Executive

On May 23, the Foundation welcomed guests to a black-tie event celebrating the 2024 New Zealand Respiratory Achievers’ Awards and the Foundation’s 60th anniversary.

We had an amazing turnout, and we are grateful to those who joined us for such a special occasion!

The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of our Platinum Friends of the Foundation sponsor, G.J. Gardner Homes NZ.

Betty Blake

Adult Asthma

Betty Blake knows all too well the deadly side of asthma she lost her 18-year-old cousin to an asthma attack. Betty, a 78-year-old retired registered nurse who specialised in paediatric medicine, spent the majority of her career helping children and their families manage asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Blake experienced her first asthma attack at age 26. For the next 44 years, asthma didn't have much impact on her life, but that all changed eight years ago.

"Asthma has become an unwelcome, very irksome, troublesome companion in my life.”

Betty is now trying to manage her asthma well, and focuses on things that bring her joy, such as her family, reading, learning, vegetable gardening, keeping fit and contributing to community life.

Dominique Maltby Asthma (13-18 years old)

“As scary as asthma is, it doesn’t have to stop you”.

This is the advice from 14-year-old Dominique Maltby, who has had many first-hand experiences of life-threatening asthma attacks. Dominique loves sports – anything from rippa rugby, to athletics, netball, and badminton.

Recently, her school named her the ‘Year 8 Sports Girl of the Year 2023’ – an award she was beyond excited to receive.

“I was so proud of myself because the year before I was in hospital with asthma. I was in ICU at Starship, because I had pneumonia and my lungs weren't responding to treatment at first."

Two years on, Dominque feels she has better control of her asthma, and wants other kids to know that if you look after your lungs, you can achieve anything.

The Foundation set up the Respiratory Achievers' Awards many years ago as a way of recognising and celebrating the successes of people living with respiratory conditions.

Charleigh Skelton-Morris Asthma (5-12 years old)

12-year-old Charleigh Skelton-Morris’ journey to the world stage is marked by both triumph and challenge. The Manawatū girl has qualified for the Hip Hop World Championships in Portugal with her dance crew, all the while managing the daily struggles of living with asthma.

Charleigh says it took a lot of hard work to compete in dance and manage her asthma, but she hopes her determination will inspire others.

Charleigh has suffered from asthma since she was three years old and has had multiple hospital admissions, including to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

"My scariest visit was when I had my asthma attack in Tauranga and I spent a week in ICU because the doctors couldn’t get my oxygen levels back up.“

Charleigh is terrified of ending up back in hospital, so she makes sure she takes steps to prevent this from happening.

Faamanatu Ofisa Other Respiratory Diseases

14-year-old Faamanatu Ofisa lives and breathes rugby, but sometimes finds it hard to breathe full stop.

Faamanatu, or Natu as he is known, was diagnosed in 2021 with severe bronchiectasis.

Natu often feared for his future in the early days of his diagnosis.

"One of the challenges I faced was always thinking that I would never achieve anything in my life because of the condition I have.”

However, after multiple trips to the hospital and recognising his limitations, he tried hard to focus on his health.

His specialists have praised him for his outstanding selfmanagement, and for always smiling.

NICK RUNS AUSTRALIA

Where is he now?

On April 15, Nick began his journey across Australia. As we go to print with this magazine, he’s closing in on the finish line - just 700km away.

Since beginning this cross-country run from Perth to Sydney, Nick has kept us up-to-date with his wildlife sightings, his interactions with passers-by, his mindset, and his well-deserved rest days.

Nick’s journey has taken him through the notoriously challenging Nullarbor Plain, which forms part of the Australian outback, as well as many other smaller towns along the way.

At times, he’s described the isolation as relentless, so is grateful for his full-time support person, Paul Wheeler –chief driver, head chef and photographer.

In addition, for a 1200km stint across the outback, Nick was joined by Jamie Thomson from Comfortech. He's now running with Mehmet Donmez, a close friend from Wellington.

Aside from his human interactions, he’s crossed paths with dingoes, kangaroos, snakes, emu, goats, as well as battled with persistent flies at the start of his run when the heat was at its peak.

His days are completed in two legs, starting at sunrise and finishing at sunset, completing about 60km each day. Temperatures in the first few weeks of his run reached over 30 degrees – now it starts at 2 degrees.

Every day, he continues to receive words of encouragement from passing motorists. He’s often stopped by locals or truckies asking where he’s going and the reason for his run – some even suffering from respiratory conditions themselves.

Nick’s journey is as inspiring as it is challenging. For more detailed updates on his weekly adventures, check out his blog on his website www.nickrunsasutralia.org.nz

Nick is supported by Friends of the Foundation Silver Partner, Comfortech.

3,250km

distance travelled to date

59 days how long he's been on his journey

as at June 14

60km

Better Breathing Hero Nick Ashill, right, with Jamie Thomson, Head of IT at Comfortech.

Wildfires rage at the beginning of Nick's journey across Australia.

Overcoming asthma to complete Ironman

Josh Brodie, you are an IRONMAN!

Those were the words spoken by the commentator as Josh ran across the finish line on Saturday 2 Marchalmost 14 hours after he began.

A 3.9 km swim, 180 km bike, followed by a marathon 42.2 km run, completed. His body aching, but he did it.

We, at the Foundation, want to say a huge thanks to Josh for all his hard work to help us raise awareness and funds for our cause.

His journey to become an Ironman has been no small feat and it shows real determination, drive and passion.

Josh is proof that you can do anything you set your mind to.

Fifteen weeks have passed since Josh completed the Taupō Ironman. He has spent this time reflecting on his progress and the goals of his campaign.

“I set out to complete the Ironman and raise funds and create awareness for the Foundation.

"It took me completely out of my comfort zone and I am proud of myself for the months of hard work and dedication towards the goal.”

Josh was also the guest speaker at this year's biennial New Zealand Respiratory Achievers' Awards. He spoke of his experience growing up with asthma and how he overcame many challenges to get where he is today.

Josh's story is one of determination, perseverance and ambition.

Josh vs Asthma was supported by Friends of the Foundation Gold Partner, DVS.

Better Breathing Hero, Tony Jackson Scholar, and recent Ironman, Josh Brodie.

Josh Brodie and wife Lauren at the recent Respiratory Achievers' Awards 2024.

Josh Brodie presenting funds raised from his campaign to Foundation Chief Executive Letitia Harding.

Run, walk or swim laps this September to help us raise funds for the 1 in 7 Kiwis living with a respiratory disease

Keeping homes warm and healthy: insulation and heating grants in New Zealand

Everyone deserves a warm, dry, healthy home –see if you’re eligible for financial support to insulate and heat yours.

When the chill sets in, it’s a Kiwi tradition to layer up with extra jumpers and blankets.

However, these measures alone are not enough.

"Even with layers, breathing in cold air can be detrimental to health, especially in cold and damp homes," says Henry Nepia, Manager of Warmer Kiwi Homes.

Warmer Kiwi Homes is a government initiative offering grants to lower-income homeowners, covering a significant portion of insulation and heating costs. Administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), the programme offers grants for 80-90% of insulation expenses and up to 80% of energy-efficient heater costs.

Sumaria Beaton-Sikisini, General Manager at Awarua Synergy, emphasises the importance of comprehensive home improvements.

"Putting insultation and heating in is a big part of the challenge – the remaining changes are things like installing curtains and educating homeowners.

"We are fortunate, in New Zealand, to have a well-functioning and dedicated government department working on this."

Awarua Synergy works to improve the health of its community alongside Warmer Kiwi Homes.

“It still surprises me how much people don’t understand about the effects of unmanaged dampness mixed with balancing temperature control,” Beaton-Sikisini says.

Signs of dampness, such as mould growth, are visible indicators of an unhealthy environment, particularly in bedrooms.

Ventilation, insulation, and heating work together to improve the health quality of the air inside, which is required for a healthy living environment.

Nepia says an independent review of the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme last year found that clients who had a heat pump installed enjoyed warmer, drier homes, while they also saved 16% in electricity costs over winter.

Applying for the grant is straightforward. Once eligibility is confirmed, a service provider assesses the home for installations.

Nepia commends the community organisations collaborating with Warmer Kiwi Homes enhancing accessibility to the programme.

"These organisations play a crucial role, contributing millions annually to expand programme accessibility," Nepia says.

Don't let the cold compromise your health and comfort. Apply for insulation and heating grants today and embrace the warmth of a healthier home.

Homeowners may be eligible if they have a Community Services Card or live in a lower-income area. Find out if you are eligible for a Warmer Kiwi Homes grant, visit warmerkiwihomes.govt.nz or freephone 0800 749 782.

TOTAL RAISED $15,578

115

HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO BE UPSKILLED

Thank you to everyone who donated to our World Asthma Day campaign to help educate our healthcare heroes. What we've achieved together is incredible!

We were on a mission to raise funds to enrol as many health professionals as possible in an online course that provides vital education on asthma and COPD management for free (usually $135) - and we've done that. With the funds raised, 115 health professionals will benefit.

We'd like to make special mention to Friends of the Foundation Silver Partner, HRV, who raised $12,100 throughout the month of May.

Their contribution, alone, means we can enrol 89 health professionals in the Asthma and COPD Fundamentals

If you know a health professional who should go on this course, please let us know by scanning the QR code.

HRV, a Silver Friends of the Foundation partner, celebrated World Asthma Day by dressing up in blue and hosting an afternoon tea. Throughout May, HRV raised $12,100 for the Foundation.

We would like to acknowledge our Friends of the Foundation partners and other businesses who kindly donated prizes for our campaign.

The science

is in: HRV home ventilation delivers on home health

If you’re living in a poorly ventilated home, you know the drill in winter: first thing in the morning, sponge down the windowsills where condensation has dripped down overnight. It’s not just an annoyance though; it’s a red flag!

HRV Group General Manager Norman Woods explains: “Condensation on your windows is a sure sign that your family is living in a home with a moisture problem, and that really means you have a ventilation problem.”

Everyday activities create moisture in the home. That includes showering, cooking, laundry and even breathing. Most of those are hard to avoid. The solution is to make sure your home has good airflow, year round. If it doesn’t, moisture, mould and associated health hazards can follow.

HRV home ventilation tackles this issue head on by taking drier air from the roof space, then filtering it before delivering it via vents to your living spaces. Stale, damp air is forced out, leaving you and your family with a drier, healthier home.

Scientifically proven technology

HRV AirSense™ home ventilation is a New Zealand home ventilation system that’s scientifically proven to reduce moisture1 and helps prevent mould. HRV worked closely with researchers at Auckland’s Unitec to test HRV AirSense™ home ventilation in real-world conditions. The results speak for themselves1

In the Unitec real-world study, levels of particulate matter (things like dust, pollen and mould spores) and carbon dioxide all dropped when HRV home ventilation was installed. The AirSense™ includes:

• 5-layer WoolCare™ filter

• Powerful, quiet, EC fan

• Ducting delivers filtered air to every room

A natural partner for ARFNZ

HRV is proud to partner with the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ and donated $100 for every new HRV home ventilation* system sold in the month of May 2024 to support asthma and COPD education for New Zealand health professionals.

Foundation Chief Executive Ms Letitia Harding says: "it's another way they’re sharing our vision for a healthier New Zealand.

“If you are living in an unventilated, cold, damp home that can definitely be a trigger to cause your asthma symptoms to flare up.

Getting a well-ventilated system for your home is incredibly important, which is one of the reasons we have partners like HRV as a Friend of the Foundation.

"They have the same vision as we have which is to live in a healthy home."

1 Based on a scientific study of 15 New Zealand homes conducted by Unitec Institute of Technology (Auckland) on behalf of HRV during winter and spring 2021. Results may vary depending on design and geographic location of a home.

* Terms and conditions applied - excluded upgrades and HRV Lite.

Understanding Bronchiectasis

July 1st marks World Bronchiectasis Day, which aims to raise global awareness of the disease and help those diagnosed with it (and others who may be vulnerable) through education, advocacy, and a global conversation.

What is bronchiectasis?

Bronchiectasis is a lung condition that affects the breathing tubes or airways in your lungs. If you have bronchiectasis, the walls of the airways become wider and damaged due to inflammation or infection. You will also have more phelgm (also called mucus or sputum). This phlegm can be harder to cough out, and if it is not cleared properly it may lead to more infections and damage. Bronchiectasis may be only in one or two areas in the lungs, or it may be in many areas of the lungs.

Who gets bronchiectasis?

Bronchiectasis can affect people of all ages, including children. It is more common in women and older people and in Māori and Pacific people.

What causes bronchiectasis?

The most common cause is having an infection such as pneumonia or whooping cough. In many cases the cause of bronchiectasis is not known. There are some health conditions that are linked to bronchiectasis, such as immune deficiencies and chronic lung diseases.

What are the symptoms?

Most people with bronchiectasis have a long-term ‘wet’ (mucus-producing) cough and cough up a lot of phelgm. Some people may cough up blood in their phlegm. Other symptoms may include feeling tired, being short of breath and getting recurrent chest infections.

How is it diagnosed?

As well as assessing your symptoms, past medical history and childhood history, the healthcare practitioner will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope for any abnormal sounds. The main test to diagnose bronchiectasis is a high resolution CT scan of your chest. Other tests may include a chest X-ray, spirometry (breathing) test, blood tests to check your immune system, and sputum tests.

How is it treated?

There are a number of treatments to manage the symptoms of bronchiectasis. Some of these include techniques to clear the phlegm from your chest, antibiotics, managing breathlessness and vaccinations.

Outlook for bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a lifelong health condition. Some people with bronchiectasis have very few symptoms and their condition is stable. Others have more symptoms and more frequent infections. Talk to your healthcare practitioner about your condition and how to best manage your bronchiectasis.

For more information on managing bronchiectasis, scan the QR code or visit our website to read and download our bronchiectasis resources.

Fundamental Information on Managing Your Asthma

Good asthma management ensures that asthma is wellcontrolled and doesn’t impact on daily life.

With 1 in 8 people living with asthma, it is a common respiratory condition in New Zealand. It can be potentially serious if it is not well-managed, and sadly even lifethreatening should a severe asthma attack (or ‘asthma emergency’) occur.

This booklet is for adolescents and adults (12 years and over), as well as friends, caregivers, and family of someone living with asthma.

Learning about asthma will equip you with the necessary information required to support you and your whānau.

It was written and published by the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ.

Scan to get your copy.

HELP US FIND THE BEST INHALER FOR CHILDREN WITH ASTHMA

Symbicort, a single combined inhaler, has been shown to significantly reduce the rate of severe asthma attacks in adults and teens. At the MRINZ we are assessing whether the same is true for children.

The START CARE study is coordinated by the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand (MRINZ) and has been approved by the Northern B Health and Disability Ethics Committee reference: (2022 FULL 13221)

www.mrinz.ac.nz/start-care

TO TAKE PART YOU MUST:

• Have asthma

• Be aged between 5 and 11 years

• Take separate preventer and reliever inhalers

WHAT DOES STUDY PARTICIPATION INVOLVE?

• 6 visits over 1 year

• Inhalers will be provided free of charge

• Breathing tests + asthma education

• Reimbursement for travel expenses

The MRINZ is looking for children aged 5-11 years with asthma to take part in a landmark clinical trial.

60th CELEBRATIONS

ASTHMA AND RESPIRATORY FOUNDATION NZ

Celebrate six decades of dedication and progress with our exclusive 60th anniversary pin, a symbol of our commitment to improving the respiratory health of all New Zealanders.

Whether you're a long-standing supporter, a dedicated health professional, or a grateful beneficiary of our services, wearing this pin is a proud declaration of your connection to our cause. Wear it with pride, knowing that you're making a difference in the lives of those affected by respiratory conditions across our communities.

Purchase a limited edition 60th anniversary pin and wear yours to show support for the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ.

Scan the QR code, or visit www.asthmafoundation.org.nz/get-involved/store

Support Groups

Wellington SYLO Choir Tuesdays 10.30am 027 817 1136

All Saints Church, 90 Hamiltons Road, Haitaitai

Manawatu Breathe Easy 06 3587491 owenped@xtra.co.nz

your local

ASTHMA SOCIETY

Is your support group missing? Let us know: info@arfnz.org.nz

Asthma NZ - Auckland

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm 09 623 0236 0800 227 328 anz@asthma.org.nz 581 Mt Eden Road, Auckland

Otago Asthma Society

Monday-Friday, 9am-12pm 03 471 6167, 027 471 6160 otagoasthma@xtra.co.nz

Dunedin Community House, 1st Floor, Cnr Moray and Great King Street, Dunedin 9016

Tu Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust

Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm 04 939 4629 / 0800 939 462 anne@kokiri-hauora.org.nz 7-9 Barnes St, Seaview, Lower Hutt 5010

Nelson Asthma Society

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am-2pm 03 544 1562 asthma.nelson@xtra.co.nz 9 Cambridge Street, Richmond, Nelson 7020

Horowhenua Breathe Easy Support Group 06 368 8069 iandlmckenzie@xtra.co.nz 9 Kilsby Place, Levin 5510

Marlborough COPD Support and Exercise Group

Contact Gillian McCloy 027 454 5102

Eastern BOP Asthma and COPD Support Group 07 307 1447 or 0800 227 363 copd@drct.co.nz

C/O Karen Couchman, Disabilities Resource Centre Trust, 141 King Street, Whakatane 3120

Porirua SYLO Choir Thursdays 11.30 - 12.30pm 027 405 6458 Supper Room, Mungavin Hall, Mungavin Avenue, Ranui, Porirua

Asthma NZ - Wellington

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm 04 237 4520 wellington@asthma.org.nz Level 2, 120 Featherston Street, Wellington 6011 www.asthma.org.nz

Asthma Waikato

Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm 07 838 0851 info@asthmawaikato.org.nz

18 Claudelands Road, Hamilton East, Hamilton

CanBreathe Canterbury Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm 03 386 0278 office@canbreathe.org.nz 196 Hills Road, Edgeware, Christchurch 8013 www.canbreathe.org.nz

Asthma and Respiratory Management BOP Inc

Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm 07 577 6738 0800 ARM BOP or 0800 276 267 reception@asthmabop.org.nz 254 Chadwick Rd, Gate Pa, Tauranga 3112

Breathe Hawke’s Bay Monday-Friday, 8.30am-3pm 06 835 0018 admin@breathehb.co.nz 199 Dickens Street, Napier www.breathehb.co.nz

Asthma NZ - Rotorua

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm 07 347 1012 rotorua@asthma.org.nz

1290 Eruera Street, Rotorua 3010