Apii Te Uki Ou teacher Grace Archer, who contracted a listeria infection in Rarotonga, has acknowledged the messages and donations supporting her during her treatment in New Zealand.

Archer was flown from Rarotonga to New Zealand on May 8, and spent nearly five weeks in a coma after suffering from the infection.

She had been infected with listeria bacterial meningitis – Cook Islands’ first listeria case in more than 10 years.

Health ministry Te Marae Ora and the Auckland Regional Public Health Service launched an investigation into this matter.

The Health ministry earlier said the investigation was closed and there were no more further cases reported in the Cook Islands.

Te Marae Ora last week advised that there were no developments regarding the listeria investigation as there wasn’t any formal investigation done.

“There were initial inquiries made post the case coming to TMO’s attention.”

The ministry added they were not aware of Archer’s current condition.

Archer-through a Givealittle page that was set up to fundraise for her treatment-said she was “getting better but was finding it hard”.

She said she was looking forward to walking again and going to a wedding.

Archer worked hard to reach her goals and in the four and a half months she was admitted at the Auckland Hospital, she amazed her family with her progress.

The Givealittle page closed last month. Funds raised are being used for mobility and speech aids that are not covered by the Auckland District Health Board.