THE Woman of the Year Awards run by The News is an opportunity to shine a light on those who have shown courage, strength and tenacity.  And no-one sums up those qualities more than Christina Corps.

Ten years ago, following an horrific car accident, medics told her family she would never walk or talk again.  But, Christina, 27, from Fareham, has stunned everyone by learning to do just that – and even running six times in the Race for Life.

She has made it her mission to prove that people with brain injuries can recover and live a full and happy life.  Her work with the charity Headway has earned her a Woman of the Year Award nomination from Headway case manager Linda Stewart.  She said: ‘I have known Christina for over three years and in that time I have witnessed her positivity and determination to overcome any obstacles that   have presented themselves.

‘She has never allowed the difficulties she has prevent her from leading a full and meaningful life and she is not afraid to take on new challenges.  ‘Christina has contributed to training sessions for support workers and trainee social workers, giving them a much better understanding of how to work effectively with someone who has a brain injury.’

Linda added: ‘I do not want to underestimate the difficulties that Christina has to contend with on a daily basis. Despite this, she has made remarkable strides and is a real inspiration to all of us who continue to admire her tenacity and determination to lead as independent a life as possible.’  Christina’s bravery is an example to all women.