Rugby & Parliament Move Together For Arthritis

Media Release
Tuesday 21st September 2010

Rugby & Parliament Move Together For Arthritis

Arthritis doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone of any age as displayed today when rugby great Neemia Tialata and MP Michael Woodhouse became a united front to launch Arthritis New Zealand’s Annual Appeal on the steps of Parliament.

Damaged joints have a 60% more chance of developing Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, and as an elite sportsman, Neemia knows how important it is to look after his body: “Rugby players work hard to get in the best possible physical shape, but many are affected by arthritis in one form or another at some stage and we are very appreciative of the excellent work done by Arthritis New Zealand. I am delighted to help launch Arthritis Appeal Week and urge people to give their support in any way they can.”

Michael Woodhouse, who suffers from arthritis himself, hopes New Zealanders will get behind the Arthritis Appeal: “I was diagnosed with arthritis 11 years ago, but thanks to a combination of diet and exercise, good luck and daily medication I have enjoyed relatively good health", said Mr Woodhouse.

“Many don’t. For a considerable number of the 530,000 New Zealanders with arthritis, the effect of this disabling disease on them and their families is such that the support, education and advocacy of Arthritis New Zealand is a vital ingredient in coping with their conditions, and I want to pay tribute to the excellent work Arthritis New Zealand do," he said.

Mr Woodhouse wanted to dispel the myth that arthritis only affects the elderly: “Over 1,000 children and young people under the age of 18 are affected” said Mr Woodhouse. “The work of Arthritis New Zealand in supporting our young is particularly important and appreciated. I commend the Arthritis Annual Appeal to all New Zealanders” he said.

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in New Zealand, and is often wrongly referred to as an ‘old person’s disease’, when in fact over half of those diagnosed in New Zealand are of the working age. 25,000 New Zealanders will not work this year due to arthritis.

Sandra Kirby, Chief Executive of Arthritis New Zealand hopes all people with arthritis are able to make the most of their day: “It’s safe to think that most New Zealanders could name at least one family member who is living with arthritis. Having a family member suffer from arthritis can have a huge impact on a family. We hope the New Zealand public will give kindly through our Annual Appeal Week so we can continue to offer our support and services to those families affected by arthritis.”

“Our thanks go to Neemia and Michael today with helping increase awareness that arthritis doesn’t just affect the older generation.”

Arthritis Annual Appeal Week is from 21st of September to the 28th, with the street collection on Friday 24th September. To donate $20 please phone 0900 333 20 or visit www.arthritis.org.nz.

ENDS

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