Industry figure Susan Friedland has been celebrated with the Global Wellness Summit’s (GWS) annual Leading Woman in Wellness Award.

During a poignant ceremony, Mrs Friedland was recognised with the award for her support and dedication in working alongside her husband Dr Danny Friedland who recently passed away, following a terminal brain cancer diagnosis.

A trained physician, author, passionate keynote speaker, coach and consultant, Dr Friedland was a long-term attendant and friend of the GWS and is celebrated in the industry as one of the original pioneers who saw the value in incorporating wellness into healthcare.

Dr and Mrs Friedland also co-founded SuperSmartHealth; an organisation designed to help businesses support and empower their workforces, while fostering high-performing and engaged organisations, using evidence-based practice drawing on neuroscience and mindfulness practice.

Mrs Friedland was presented the Leading Woman in Wellness Award last week by the GWS’ CEO Susie Ellis and integrative medicine specialist Nicola Finley MD.

She dedicated the accolade to all the women and men who work tirelessly under the radar to improve people’s lives, saying: “Your work does not go unnoticed and you’re making a profound difference in the world and we’re so grateful for all of that.”

In her closing remarks, she reflected on Dr Friedland’s three main ideas for the world.

“By the end of his life, Danny had his ideas crystalised into three main messages that he wanted to inspire people with:

• Ask yourself what matters most.

• Make every moment count.• Live a loving life.

“We’re so grateful to all of you for honouring us, because Danny is still with us and his message is still resonating,” she commented.

“His biggest desire was to leave a legacy in the world, which I think he’s done.”

In response to news of Dr Friedland’s passing, the global spa and wellness network responded with an outpouring of tributes championing his dedication to the sector, his pioneering thought leadership and his kindness.