The family of a beloved grandmother who died after being hit by a 94-year-old driver say they will never come to terms with their loss.
Linda Wareham, 77, was walking her dog across the entrance of a petrol station on Hagley Road in Oldswinford when she was struck by Joan Barwick on April 17 last year. Barwick, then aged 94, failed to pay attention as she turned onto the forecourt, resulting in the collision.
Mrs. Wareham suffered catastrophic head injuries and was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Her life support was turned off the following day due to the severity of her condition.
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On April 24, Barwick pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving at Wolverhampton Crown Court. She was sentenced to 16 months in prison, suspended for two years.
During the court proceedings, Mrs. Wareham’s family spoke about the profound impact her death has had on their lives. Her husband of more than 60 years, Peter Wareham, revealed he has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the tragedy.
Peter described Linda as “caring and selfless,” a woman who was “good fun and independent” and enjoyed a life of good health before that fateful day. “All that ended on the 18th of April when my wife was cruelly taken,” he said.
Their daughter, Joanne Willetts, expressed her continuing grief and struggle to come to terms with her mother’s death. “I cannot accept she isn’t coming back,” Joanne said. “I carry a quiet sadness that will be with me the rest of my life. To lose my mum so tragically is heartbreaking for me and my children.”
The family’s loss serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of even low-speed traffic accidents.