In case you have not heard, the recent Australian Day Honours included two members of LANSW and another laryngectomee from Victoria.
Both Dawn and John Lovett from our Newcastle Branch were awarded an OAM for services to community health. Dawn, who is a total laryngectomee , and her husband John have been involved with the Hunter Valley group of the LANSW for decades. Their monthly gatherings at the Mayfield Bowling Club are open to all laryngectomees and supporters in the Hunter region, and their annual Christmas gathering at the same club guarantees a wonderful evening.
On behalf of all members of the LANSW we congratulate Dawn and John for their well deserved awards.
Although not a member of the LANSW, Robert Manne, who is a total laryngectomee since 2014, was awarded an AO for distinguished services to tertiary education, to political and social commentary to public affairs and to the indigenous community. Robert has also appeared on “One plus One” on the ABC in the 2018 series hosted by Jane Hutcheon. A very interesting article was written by Robert and published in the The Monthly – Essay about his journey in becoming a lary. The essay was called “ On Borrowed Time”.
A big round of applause for these recipients who have distinguished themselves after their hiccup in life. Not only are larys still talking, but we’re still contributing to society as well.
Regards and thanks to John Chaloner for bringing this news to my attention and to Nigel Balm for his involvement with the nominations of Dawn & John.
Les Byrnes – President