The focus of this interview is on Jan’s 40-year involvement in education, health, and social support organizations in Central Otago. Jan initially trained as an Occupational Therapist. She was instrumental in ensuring that her daughter, who had Downs Syndrome, was able to be mainstreamed at Dunstan High School. This was the origin of a programme that was the first of its kind in New Zealand. Jan also led a multi-disciplinary team at Dunstan Hospital researching stroke rehabilitation. After trialling, the model they developed was offered to the rest of New Zealand. Jan went on to help found two organizations, The Friendship Network, and Compassionate Friends. She worked for over 30 years with these organizations to support people in the Central Otago community.
Interviewer: Raylene Fastier
Interview Date:
October 2024
Jan Pessione at home
Jan receiving an award presented by the Ministry of Health, nominated by Living Options, Alexandra
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