Franchise Hero's New Challenge

Dean, who was made a Life Member of the Franchise Association at the Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards in November, was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects movement and coordination. "Rather than dwell on what I can’t control, I’ve chosen to focus on what I can, he says. "And one of those things is swimming.

"Before my diagnosis, I’d already committed to a huge personal challenge – swimming the full 40 kilometres of Lake Taupō. Now, I’ve turned this into something with even greater purpose: a fundraising swim for Parkinson’s New Zealand, who provide vital support, education, and advocacy for thousands of Kiwis living with the condition.

"The cause is now deeply personal. Every stroke I take in training reminds me of the power of perseverance – of moving forward, no matter what. It also reminds me of the lessons franchising taught me: that resilience comes from community, and that we go further when we go together.

"I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some exceptional people – franchisees, franchisors, mentors and colleagues – all driven by a shared belief in partnership, trust, and helping others succeed. 

"If you’d like to support my swim for Parkinson’s New Zealand, you can visit my Givealittle page https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/swimming-for-parkinsons-my-journey-my-mission.  Every dollar helps, and every message of encouragement motivates me to keep training, swimming, and moving forward.

"Because, just like in franchising, success isn’t about going it alone – it’s about backing each other, through every challenge and every stroke along the way."