Meet the Board
Guided by expertise, compassion and a shared commitment to saving lives
The NZ Blood Clot Foundation is led by a passionate and experienced board, bringing together medical professionals, patient advocates and community leaders. Each board member contributes their unique skills and knowledge to help shape our strategy, strengthen our voice and ensure we remain focused on our mission.
Their dedication reflects our commitment to creating meaningful change – from raising awareness of blood clot risks to supporting patients and families across New Zealand.
Trevor Johnston, Chairman
Trevor arrived in New Zealand in 1996 to work initially the Office Products Industry. However, over the last 18 years, Trevor has built a large ecommerce business which he stills manages today. Trevor gained very valuable governance experience as a board member before becoming the CEO of a large regional sporting organisation. As a Pulmonary Embolism survivor, he is well positioned to lead the New Zealand Blood Clot Foundation.
Dr Eileen Merriman
Dr Eileen Merriman is a consultant haematologist and the clinical director of haematology and lead thrombosis clinician at North Shore Hospital in Auckland.
Eileen has a sub-specialist interest in venous thromboembolism and offers an NZ-wide service. e.g. deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, superficial vein thrombosis and less usual venous site thrombosis e.g. cerebral, intra-abdominal, as well as advice regarding thrombosis risk related to hormonal medications such as HRT and contraceptive medications.
Dr Merriman also provides perioperative anticoagulation plans/advice, and consults on a range of benign haematological conditions such as ITP and myeloproliferative disorders.
Anne Blumgart
Anne Blumgart, based in Auckland, NZ, is currently a Medication Safety Specialist Pharmacist at Counties Manukau Health (Counties Manukau District Health Board). Anne Blumgart brings experience from previous roles at Counties Manukau District Health Board, The University of Auckland, New Zealand and New Zealand VTE Prevention Steering Group.
Larry Robbins
Larry spent 26 years with the Royal New Zealand Navy and almost a decade as chief executive of the National Maritime Museum.
Mr Robbins was awarded an OBE for his part in rescuing eight people from their stricken yachts during the Auckland to Tonga Regatta in 1994 as commander of the HMNZS Monowai.
Larry is Trust and Governance expert and has been instrumental in the creation of the New Zealand Blood Clot Foundation.