A charity ‘Zumbathon’ is taking place in Chesham this weekend in aid of a woman who suffered a stroke just minutes after giving birth to twins.

Zumba teacher, Sarah Dowman, has organised the Zumbathon from 12.30pm to 3.30pm on Sunday, November 15 at Chesham Leisure Centre on White Hill to raise money for Charlotte Fairlie, who she says was give just a 1% chance to live.

The stroke left Mrs Fairlie with such devastating amnesia that she cannot remember her wedding day or being pregnant with her sons.

Mrs Fairlie spent seven months in hospital due to a blood clot in her brain and two brain bleeds, and she is now paralysed on her right side, requiring intense physio and speech therapy.

Miss Dowman and Mrs Fairlie met at Tring Park School for Performing Arts at a young age.

Miss Dowman said: “Charlotte is the nicest and kindest person you’ll meet.

“She’s calming to be around and never has a bad word to say about anyone. She’s not one of those people who will let it get her down, she’s a fighter.

“She was only given a 1% chance to live, and even then she would never be able to walk or speak again, but she’s making huge progress.”

Friends and family of Mrs Fairlie are aiming to raise £40,000 to aid her rehabilitation and transition back into home life.

Mr Fairlie’s parents, who are Cookham residents, have been fundraising in the church and local community.

To date almost £13,400 has been raised on the Charlotte’s Journey website.

Ten Zumba instructors and a DJ from South Bucks will be giving up their time for the cause and local businesses have got involved by donating raffle prizes.

To secure a place at the ‘Zumbathon’, visit www.gofundme.com/charlottesjourney and donate £10 or pay the £12 on the door cost.