Helen Palmer, who has a nursing background, was very aware of the challenges that MND presents when she became involved with MND New Zealand. Her service to the MND Association began locally with the Waikato Branch around 2003 and she continued that work until 2017, serving much of the time as local chairperson.   In 2006 she was elected to National Council and from 2008-2012 she very ably led the Association and melded Council into a strong harmonious team. She continued to serve as a Councillor until her retirement in 2017. Helen has been a stalwart for MND New Zealand and the Association has benefited tremendously from her extensive knowledge of the Association at both Branch and National level.