Joshua Nicholls (Ngati Kahungunu): (Māori Asthma 5 to 12 Years)
Joshua has had asthma and skin allergies since infancy. School life has been interrupted with many hospital admissions with asthma. Until recently he allowed his mother to monitor and manage the asthma. But this changed 18 months ago when Joshua decided to take control himself. He now manages the asthma with regular medication that he takes without reminders.
He also enrolled himself in the swimming club which has improved his fitness and lung capacity. As a result his self confidence has developed and he now takes a lead role in most school activities, and is considered a role model and mentor for younger asthmatics. When his mother was unwell with asthma this year, Joshua assumed extra responsibilities at home, even calling the ambulance when required. Joshua is an exceptional young man taking an active role in his asthma management, his story highlighting the positive impacts of his decision.