Regains consciousness

Guardian paper carrier Betty Ann Wood recovering in Moncton Hospital after falling on concrete steps

It’s been a rough week for Charlottetown’s Betty Ann Wood.

The Guardian paper carrier, often seen hawking newspapers in front of Tim Hortons on Kent Street or collecting bottles for the recycle depot, has regained consciousness after being in a coma for three days following a fall.

Saturday, she was entering a Charlottetown convenience store when she tripped and fell on the concrete steps and cracked the back of her head.

She was taken by ambulance to the Moncton Hospital where she was treated after it was determined she had intracranial bleeding.

On Tuesday night, she regained consciousness and was able to recognize her two sisters, Florence and Eleanor Wood, who waited and prayed by her side.

Another sister is happy that Betty Ann is out of intensive care.

“We are feeling relieved and hopeful,” says Helen Flynn, who also visited Betty Ann in the hospital.

Wood was best known for her ever-present companion named Donnelly, the late Maine Coon cat, who was draped around her neck like a fur collar.

She also had a strong work ethic and could often be seen trudging through deep snow during the worst snow storms to make sure readers of The Guardian got their paper on time.

“Betty Ann is very independent and self-sufficient. She accepts help only when she really needs something,” says Flynn, adding that her sister is expected to be transported back to the QEH later this week.

Anyone wishing to send cards and best wishes to Wood may do so by mailing them to the QEH at 60 Riverside Dr., Charlottetown, P.E.I., C1A 8T5.

GUARDIAN PHOTO Betty Ann Wood, also known as the Cat Lady, is shown with Donnelly, her late Maine Coon cat, in a 2002 file photo. The Charlottetown woman has regained consciousness after three days in a coma at the Moncton Hospital. She is expected to return to the...