Know someone who deserves a medal?

Know someone who deserves a medal?

This is your chance to show an active, inspirational and ‘mature’ friend or family member just how much they mean to you.

Osteoporosis New Zealand Inc is calling for nominations for this year’s ‘You Deserve a Medal’ Awards – which aim to encourage older people to stay physically active.

The awards are held annually during Osteoporosis Awareness Week (October 19-25) and are open to all New Zealanders over 65 years.

The Chair of Osteoporosis New Zealand, Claire Mackintosh says winners from previous years have been ordinary men and women who have inspired their families and friends with their ‘can do’ attitudes and active lives.

“Being physically active is so important, particularly as we age, so we see these awards as an important platform for encouraging this.”

“85 year old Stan Blow says, “The experience of winning ‘You Deserve a Medal’ has ignited a spark in me. I am now broadening my life with new ideas and ideals for the future.” Stan was one of our 2007 winners; having had three hip replacements he suffered years of chronic pain, but after taking part in the ACC funded Otago Exercise Programme and a physical activity programme run by AUT he hasn’t looked back. Stan now gives talks in his retirement village about the importance of physical activity in preventing falls, broken bones and also the benefit of exercise for the heart and soul.”

“We want everyone to enjoy the benefits of regular physical activity, which range from an overall improved sense of wellbeing to helping prevent falls through improved balance and muscle strength.”

“Regular exercise slows bone loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis – a disease that affects approximately half of New Zealand women and nearly one third of New Zealand men over the age of 60 years,” says Mrs Mackintosh.

This year’s ‘You Deserve a Medal’ Awards will be hosted by the Minister of Health, Hon. Tony Ryall. The ceremony is being held at Parliament on October 14th and will be attended by our patron Sir Anand Satyanand and Osteoporosis New Zealand’s ‘bone ambassadors’ Caroline and Georgina Evers-Swindell.

So nominate someone and send us an application form, available from Osteoporosis New Zealand at www.bones.org.nz, email info@bones.org.nz or phone 04 499 4862. Applications must be received by 4th September.

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