see our vision
MACULAR DEGENERATION
causes blindness. Are you
at risk? I know I am."
WELCOME TO MACULAR DEGENERATION NEW ZEALAND
MDNZ NEWS
Macular Degeneration NZ was recently the recipient of $28,000 thanks to the fundraising efforts of the ‘Mad Butcher’ Sir Peter Leitch, one of our ambassadors. This generous donation was raised at a fundraising gala dinner held at the Ellerslie Convention Centre that was attended by 550 guests.
A total of $112,000.00 was raised for the Mad Butcher’s four charities through ticket sales and auction prizes donated by generous supporters.
MDNZ Chairperson Dr. Dianne Sharp was ecstatic when the announcement was made as to how much had been raised. “We have finally got some money in the bank. Peter has certainly given us a helping hand, so now we can get started on education about and awareness of macular degeneration in the wider community,” she said.
Allan Jones, former NZ football coach and MDNZ Trustee, in thanking Peter Leitch, noted that his enthusiasm, drive and generosity were a legend in New Zealand. He has been a fundraising champion, supporting many causes – particularly in the health field and was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 1991 for his work in the community.
Two days after the fundraising gala function, he was knighted for services to business and philanthropy. News of Sir Peter’s induction into the NZ Hall of Business Hall of Fame has come as no surprise to MDNZ trustees. “We are delighted that Sir Peter has been honoured as one of six laureates to be inducted into the NZ Business Hall of Fame, in recognition of his contribution to the economic and social development of New Zealand and his generosity to the community,” Dr Sharp said.
MDNZ is proud and honoured to have Sir Peter Leitch as an ambassador.
Did you know.......?
- MD is the leading cause of blindness in the over 50s in NZ
- Approx 25,000 people are affected with the most severe form of MD
- New therapies may limit the progression of vision loss, dependent on early diagnosis and treatment
- Promote early detection of the severe form of MD and referral for treatment
- Increase access to new therapies
- Facilitate access to support systems and low vision services
Philip Sherry - our new ambassador
Mayor John Banks officially launched MDNZ at a special event in Newmarket on 8 April attended by MDNZ Chairperson, Dr. Dianne Sharp, Trustees, Ambassadors and special guests.