At the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ, we receive no Government funding and rely heavily on donations and the gifts left to us in wills to fund our advocacy, education and research. We are endlessly grateful and humbled by the generosity of those who chose to leave a gift in their will to us – it ensures we are able to provide ongoing support to our respiratory community for years to come and contributes to our goal of reducing hospital admissions caused by asthma and other respiratory conditions, which affects 1 in 7 Kiwis. Respiratory conditions are the leading cause of unplanned hospital admissions for children under five and every year asthma causes the death of over 100 New Zealanders and over 250,000 people globally. Your support will ensure we reduce these terrible statistics in the future. To speak to someone about leaving a gift in your will, please call us on 04 499 4592 or email pam@arfnz.org.nz
Half a Century of Dedication: Asthma Society Bids Farewell in Tairāwhiti A committed duo have closed the doors on the Gisborne and East Coast Asthma Society after more than 50 years of community service. Lyn Lolohea and Annette Brimmer have reluctantly retired from the voluntary roles they have given much of their lives to, due to family commitments. The society was established more than half a century ago. Lolohea says they have helped educate thousands of families and children about asthma during that time. Lyn was working full-time as a nurse, managing a household of six children and dedicating every other moment to the society. One of her most treasured memories was hosting asthma camps, where children could enjoy a raft of camp activities, while having the support of adults who were trained to assist with respiratory diseases. She also enjoyed visiting schools to educate teachers, as well as help with families who wanted information on how to help their children.
20 Better Breathing
Gisborne-East Coast Asthma Society committee members in 1974.
“It was really nice knowing we were giving parents the confidence to help their children and to not be frightened.” Annette says she joined the society not long after it established and also enjoyed the asthma camps and thrived in attending conferences and other events. “I always said you are never too old to learn something new.” Annette took great pleasure in helping local families in any way they could. “So it’s a bit sad to close the doors - I really did enjoy my asthma society life – but it was time.”
