A REDDITCH widow is limbering up to walk 5km around Arrow Valley Lake in memory of her late husband who died of a brain hemorrhage.
Karen Nicholas and her husband Brian often enjoyed walking around the lake and it became a favourite spot.
Married for 23 years, they did everything together, including travelling the world, going for spa days and enjoying afternoon tea breaks.
Sadly, Brian died late last December aged 74 just days after collapsing on the bathroom floor at their home.
“People assumed it was the virus at the time because Brian tested positive for Covid-19 while in hospital,” said 58-year-old Karen.
“It wasn’t, but because he had tested positive, and I had mild symptoms, I had to self-isolate for two weeks.
“It meant that I didn’t see by myself when he died.”
After raising £370 for Brian’s funeral, Karen said she was approached by the Stroke Association to help raise vital funds for the charity.
“That’s why I am doing the walk – and so far I’ve raised about £900, from a target of £500,” she said.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has made a donation, including CD Engineering where Brian used to work, Steartite on Moons Moat, All Cleaning Services in Bromsgrove, and Henley High School,” said Karen.
At the event, which will take place on May 29 at 10am, the Pitchcombe Close resident will be joined by their daughter Kirsty and Karen’s sister-in-law Carole.
Looking back on her life with Brian, Karen added: “I’m really glad he found his lost lost relatives in Australia because that meant a lot to him.
“We went over there a few times and they were able to watch his funeral over video link.”
Karen hopes to scatter Brian’s ashes next year at Darling Harbour in Sydney at her late husband’s request.
Visit https://m.facebook.com/donate/829971384571689/?fundraiser_source=feed if you would like to donate to Karen’s cause.
