Canterbury

Josh South

Who benefits from this nominee's efforts?:
Swimmers of all ages (he coaches), school children, unemployed youth, disabled children, in fact any one from the community who hears Josh speak when he speaks at his numerous and frequent public events

What obstacles has this nominee overcome?:
In 1993 at the age of 11, Josh lost his left leg at the hip due to cancer. In 1994 cancer spread to both lungs (advised medically that he was not expected to live). In 2004 had heart problems (due to previous chemotherapy), in 2004 suffered depression and in 2009 underwent Orthopaedic surgery on stump following a fall damaging his sciatica nerve

What tangible results has this nominee achieved?:
Josh has been a coach to children's swim squads, a motivational speaker to many - especially the young / disabled.

Why this nominee is a Kiwi Battler:
Josh has a positive attitude. At age 12 following lung cancer he stated he did not have time to die; got into swimming, qualifying for numerous international paralympic events & winning numerous medals at these events. Ill health resulted in withdrawal from swimming so he took up coaching & managing swim squads as a volunteer,with swimmers achieving improved results. Josh works with disabled children/youth, motivating & training to get into the work force. Working as a community youth worker, volunteering with police with the DARE (anti drug program). The most tangible result for Josh has been the fathering of his 2 year old son Leighton. Josh was never meant to live and with chemotherapy was never expected to father a child. Being a guest/motivational speaker at many school prize givings community service groups,sports groups. Active in Child Cancer Foundation, Josh is seen as a positive role model in the community, through his positive attitude & the ability to overcome adversity he has made positive changes in peoples lives. His employment has always been in positions that guide and support others but goes way beyond the call of duty & gives much of his off work time to help others reach their potential. Josh's belief is; the biggest disability is a bad attitude.