Nita Rouse (Ngapuhi): (Māori COPD)
When initially diagnosed with COPD, Nita struggled for breath. But she wanted to “take charge” of the management of COPD in order to live life to the full. Smoke-free for over 10 years, Nita also took steps to understand the management of exacerbations – how to prevent them and how to treat them with the right medications.
Working at The Warehouse during the day, Nita is also an active member of the Māori Wardens and often fills the night shift duties at her work. She welcomed the Canadian, French and Japanese rugby teams during their visits to Hawke’s Bay during the Rugby World Cup tournament with her warm smile and beautiful generosity. Nita is a wonderful example of someone taking control of COPD so that it doesn’t control her. One judge described her as a “super achiever” and therefore well deserving of this award.