Brain trauma is no barrier to Teresa in her charity walk

Teresa Cooper, of Palmer Road, had been moved to do what she could to support the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance simply because she had seen how much the service - which relies on donations for funds - is needed through reading newspapers and speaking to others.

The 69-year-old suffered a brain aneurysm after which she had to learn how to walk and talk again - and even though it occurred more than 20 years ago, she still has difficulty with speech.

After returning from her trip to the Spanish island last week, Mrs Cooper was keen to visit the Courier office because she wanted to thank everyone who had sponsored her. She said: “I have raised £542 and still cannot believe it.

“The walking was absolutely wonderful. I did it over three-and-a-half weeks and the weather was extremely good.”

Mrs Cooper, with only her iPod as company, walked two loops from the Playa Blanca at the southern tip of the island. She added: “I feel like I have been useful.”

Unknown to Mrs Cooper, the Courier was also contacted this week by Elizabeth Allen, who was on holiday with friends and staying at Playa Blanca when she met Mrs Cooper and her husband.

She said: “During the course of general chit chat, Teresa said that her sponsored walk would take place at Papagayo.

“I only realised that she had been unwell when her husband said she’d been unable to talk for two years.

“What a wonderful woman to have come through all that and still have the strength and courage to do a walk.

“I asked if I could sponsor her, which I did. I am proud to give money for the air ambulance and proud for Teresa, who is such an inspiration to us all.”

Mrs Cooper is still taking sponsorship from anyone who wishes to contribute. They can do so by contacting the Courier on 457708 or emailing [email protected]