A grandmother from Helsby who was told she would never walk again continues to defy her diagnosis.
Vera Kelly has been recognised with an award for her courage and determination in fighting back from a stroke.
She has also worked to raise vital funds for charity.
Vera said: “It was awful lying in hospital praying I’d be able to walk again.
“Before I had a stroke, I walked and rode my bike every day. I remember thinking, there’s no way I am staying in bed; I’m going to fight this.”
Vera suffered a serious stroke which left one side of her body partly paralysed in December 2012.
She spent three days in intensive care and was told it was unlikely she would ever walk again.
The grandmother of two was determined to defy her diagnosis and went through two months of intensive physiotherapy.
Surrounded by the family, she walked out of hospital in February 2013.
After returning home, Vera set about raising money for the Stroke Association, the foundation which had helped her through her recovery.
The 83-year-old became the eldest participant to complete a fundraising firewalk in December 2015.
Vera was nominated for a Life After Stroke award by charity coordinator Jane Fenwick.
Jane said: “Watching Vera take on her incredible fundraising challenges so soon after being told she would never walk again was truly moving.
“Everyone who meets Vera is touched and inspired by her determination and zest for life. “
Vera received her Highly Commended certificate, presented to her by ITV Granada presenter Elaine Willcox, at a celebratory event at the in Salford on September 22.
She said she was ‘proud’ to receive her Highly Commended award.
Stroke Association North West regional director Chris Larkin said: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever.
“The awards highlight the tremendous courage people like Vera have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same.”
The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards recognise stroke survivors and carers as well as the commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations.
For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA.
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