Age Concern Dignity Champion award ‘very special’

GREAT WORK: The Age Concern Dignity Champion award was given to Annie Meredith who was nominated by the Age Concern Tairāwhiti board, pictured here with Annie at the award ceremony. Back, from left, Phil Kupenga, Cain Kerehoma, Joe Meredith, Danny Wilkinson, Joseph Meredith and Ralph Hamon. Front, from left, Cherish Wilkinson, Trudy Meredith, Annie Meredith, Win Ruru, Seda Naden and Renay Charteris. Picture by Liam Clayton

Gisborne woman Annie Meredith has been given the Dignity Champion award by Age Concern New Zealand to acknowledge the work she does with the elderly.

“It is people like Annie who make New Zealand a better place to age,” wrote Age Concern New Zealand CEO Karen Billings-Jensen in the letter informing her of the award.

Annie was nominated by the board of Age Concern Tairāwhiti for her work in the community and her pledge to fight against ageism and support the dignity, rights and respect of all older people.

“It was a lovely surprise to receive this award,” says Annie.

“In my work as an end-of-life doula and funeral celebrant, I am dealing with people of a variety of ages. However, a lot of people I help and support are over 65, so to be acknowledged with this Dignity Champion award is very special.”

As an end-of-life doula, Annie provides emotional and physical support and education about the dying process, preparation for what’s to come and guidance while people are grieving.

A doula helps facilitate what the person and their family needs as they come to the end of life.

“Annie truly embodies our Dignity Champion pledge,” said Ms Billings-Jensen.

“The award is an acknowledgment of the commitment Annie has made to her community and the time she has dedicated to helping others.”

Ms Billings-Jensen commended Annie’s commitment to helping people during challenging times in her role as an end-of-life doula, funeral celebrant and death care advocate.

She also acknowledged the compassion shown by Annie for older spouses of the deceased, and the care for them after the funeral.

Age Concern Tairāwhiti provides support services for the more than 11,800 people over the age of 55 years in the region.

They have an office in Treble Court and people are encouraged to pop in if they want any advice or support.