Magazine

Afflicted by a rare disfiguring disorder and an intellectual disability, Alan McDowall could be excused for being unhappy and isolated. But the Invercargill resident is just the opposite - cheerful, outgoing, and determined to continue enjoying life as long as his body allows. Allison Rudd met the inspirational Alan and his devoted parents, Val and Ian.

There is a complicated name for the operation Dunedin spinal surgeon Bruce Hodgson carried out on Alan McDowall - a vascularised fibula strut graft.

Human dynamo Lawrie Forbes is out to transform the old Athenaeum building. Don't bet against it, advises Kim Dungey. Craig Baxter takes photos.

Name: Prof Kevin Clements (66)

Occupation: Professor and director of the National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Otago.