Congratulations go out to two of Parkinson’s New Zealand’s long time supporters and friends, Sir David Levene and Sir Graham Douglas, who were both announced as Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in this year’s Queens Birthday Honours.

Sir David Levene has been Patron of Parkinson’s New Zealand since 2007. David started out in the pharmacy trade before joining the family paint business in 1947. Levene’s became a household name with David expanding his father’s shop to 50 stores throughout New Zealand. This is not Sir David’s first honour as he was awarded an OBE in 1995 and was inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame in 2006.

Sir Graham Douglas has supported a variety of Parkinson’s New Zealand initiatives over many years, including Outward Bound courses for people with early onset Parkinson’s, and training of Field Officers.    Sir Graham established Douglas Pharmaceuticals in 1967 and the company remains one of the fastest growing pharmaceutical companies in Australasia.

We are delighted that the hard work, of two of our most dedicated supporters has been recognised in this way.