Parliamentarians offer Arthritis New Zealand a helping hand

Media Release

Parliamentarians offer Arthritis New Zealand a helping hand

Arthritis New Zealand’s Annual Appeal was launched at Parliament today at a function hosted by Michael Woodhouse, MP, with the Parliamentary Friends of Arthritis. Members of Parliament, representatives of Arthritis New Zealand, and a group of people with arthritis attended. Joanne Wakelin and Paul Baker, both of whom have arthritis, captivated and inspired all who attended, as they shared their experiences of living with arthritis. Two young people quietly shared their pathway to diagnosis with MPs at the table.

Arthritis New Zealand is a national organisation whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of people who are affected by arthritis. “Arthritis is New Zealand’s leading cause of disability for adults”, says Chief Executive Sandra Kirby.

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout are the most common forms of arthritis. “Arthritis can occur to any one at any age, giving lie to the common misperception that this is a condition of the elderly”, says Ms Kirby. There are over 250,000 adults of working age living with arthritis in New Zealand. Research indicates that people with arthritis are 5% less likely to be employed than those without arthritis. There are 17,940 people receiving sickness or invalids benefits as a result of musculo-skeletal conditions, the bulk of which will be arthritis.

Arthritis New Zealand provides information on all forms of arthritis through public awareness campaigns, through the 0800 663 463 line and the website. A team of Arthritis Educators, who provide expert advice, help people learn self-management skills, and provide up-to-date information about the various forms of arthritis and the treatments that are available.

Arthritis New Zealand’s Annual Appeal is from 25 September – 1 October. The street day collection will be on Friday 28 September. (In Wellington and Paraparaumu, the street collection will be on Wednesday 26 September). In some areas there may also be door to door collections. Watch out for the collectors in their bright orange vests carrying gerberas. Or phone 0900 333 20 to donate $20. Or visit www.arthritis.org.nz

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