Doncaster woman shares her love of walking and how it helped her health

Angela Cooper, 58, from Mexborough is a big fan of getting outside and says walking makes her feel great.

She said: “I’ve got fibromyalgia, an underactive thyroid.

“Walks make me feel on top of the world, I’ve even stopped taking the bus.

“If you could bottle the feeling you get, I would.”

Angela found a love of walking through becoming a community champion.

She said it has transformed her physical and mental health.

“It’s better than any medication,” she continued.

“I love it, it’s really helped me and transformed my health.

“It’s difficult to express in words but it really is amazing.”

Angela hasn’t always loved walking so much.

She said: “I used to catch the bus to work.

“To be honest, it’s only a 20 minute walk from my house.

“I’m a community Champion in Denaby, working for the Active Dearne project, and last year when Covid-19 hit, I had a meeting.

“I decided to walk instead of taking the bus and I actually took the time to look around at my surroundings.

“I got home and thought ‘I’ve really enjoyed today’ and felt on top of the world.”

That one walk motivated Angela to start moving more and she soon realised the huge benefit it was having on her life.

Being more active has helped her manage her fibromyalgia and underactive thyroid.

“I don’t usually have a lot of energy and I get tired easily,” she said.

“My legs have gotten stronger and it seems to give me more energy.

“I’m in a far better place.”

Her love of walking is now being passed on to others as Angela is spreading the joy in her walking group.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.