A History of the first 50 years of the Amputees Federation of New Zealand Incorporated, was published in 2002.
The Foreword in the 275-page book explains the meaning of the book’s title: “The Federation’s publication A New Challenge contains advice for new amputees. An Editorial in the national newsletter Purpose refers to a meaning of the word as a ‘determination to succeed’. A Challenge with Purpose incorporates both: the challenge which faced early pioneers of the Association and their determination to ensure the ‘welfare and well-being of the amputee of the future.”
The book records the formation of what was originally the New Zealand Civilian Amputees Association (Inc.) and details its growth through the decades. The protracted pleas, submissions and deputations to Government for free prostheses are recorded, together with efforts to obtain associated support such as expenses incurred by out-of-town amputees in attending Artificial Limb Centres, and free crutches and wheelchairs. One chapter is entitled ‘Artificial Limbs and Their Management’ and includes some historical information about the artificial limb industry in New Zealand.
The book is available free-of-charge and can be obtained from the author, Lorraine Peacock [email protected]