INTREPID Jackie Jones completed the Guildford 5k last Sunday in 41 minutes – just under a year after suffering a stroke that paralysed the right side of her body.

Mrs Jones, who lives in Haslemere, said: “The time wasn’t at all important really.

“Just being able to do it ahead of the first anniversary of the stroke was what it was all about.

“It was the last Saturday, of last November, just after 8am when I suffered a stroke at home.

“No warning, it just came from nowhere.

“I am nearing retirement and had always led a healthy lifestyle, enjoying running and going to the gym. I even had a personal trainer.

“After an emergency trip to Frimley, I spent the whole of December in the Royal Surrey.

“Thanks to the superb care I received there, I was walking again unaided and allowed home on New Year’s Day.

“My home care package consisted of regular visits from occupational and physiotherapists, who helped with my recovery. I was able to visit relatives in Canada in April and was driving again before Easter.

“I’m a very determined individual and had set myself a long-term goal to run 3.5 miles again.

“My chosen charity is the Stroke Association, for whom I volunteer and who offer excellent support for stroke survivors, once the NHS’ job is done.”

Jackie has raised just over £1,000 and would welcome more donations.

n To donate go to the website www.justgiving.com/fundraising/

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