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I hope that you managed to take a break and have come back refreshed, relaxed, and recharged for the year ahead. For many New Zealander’s this summer wasn’t much of a break with the wild weather that hit – especially in Tauranga. My thoughts and condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives in the Mount Maunganui tragedy. Many of our members face everyday challenges that I, and others, take for granted every day. It was inspiring to hear how member, Mark Carrington, documented his challenges and journey with the help of his fieldworker, Debbie Hoskins. Read Mark’s story on page 8 . The more examples and stories I hear of our members, how you cope, survive, and live your lives, the more I realise that you are all remarkable people. Whether it be that you do interesting, exciting things, have achieved things (like fulfilling jobs, studying, or taking on community service roles), or simply in the little everyday things to keep you going (reading a book, knitting, or spending time with whānau), these ‘things’are what our lives are all about and what we as members (and as an Association) need to embrace, support, and celebrate. please do reach out and share your stories with us and if we can help with your ‘thing’ via our Fieldwork service or through the Bradley Jenkin Memorial fund. January & February have been busy months for the team as we begin working on plans for 2026 including collaboration across our rare disorder’s community, such as uniting to support the Rare Disease Day. On International Rare Disease Day – 28 February, we will be working with other Associations to Glow up and Show up for Rare to show support for the 6% of the population living with a rare disorder. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for further updates and information on how you can support us. Hope you enjoy this issue of In Touch . FROM THE DESK Kōrero with Trevor Trevor Jenkin National Executive Chairperson Welcome to 2026! It is important our members stay well, particularly through the winter months. It is recommended that individuals with neuromuscular conditions receive vaccination for prevention of pneumococcal diseases, such as pneumonia, due to increased risk of not only becoming unwell but also the increased risk of complications if there is an inability to cough and clear the airways effectively. Pneumococcal vaccines are fully funded for children under 5 however government funding is not generally available for older children and adults. For this reason, you may not be eligible to receive a funded vaccine through your local general practice (GP). Because cost is a barrier to having the vaccine, MDANZ has a reimbursement programme available to members who have a neuromuscular condition. MDANZ will reimburse you the cost of receiving the Pneuomvax 23 vaccine at your local GP. Simply go online to complete the reimbursement form with your details, attach your receipt and you will be reimbursed within five working days. www.mda.org.nz/What-We-Offer/ Pneumonia-Vaccine-Funding Pneumonia Vaccine Funding