Brave gran who fought off intruder treated to spa day

A 91-year-old widow who bravely chased an intruder out of her home last week got the surprise of her life this week.

Joanna "Jopie" De Loryn was taking the rubbish out at her Brisbane home last Wednesday when she was confronted by a hooded thief who was in the middle of robbing her.

Not knowing if he was armed or not, Jopie managed to snatch her handbag out of his hand, before he ran from the property, with Jopie hot on his heels.

READ MORE: Home intruder scared off by 91-year-old in Brisbane

The alleged offender has since been charged, but some precious pieces of jewellery are still unaccounted for, leaving Jopie heartbroken and shaken after the ordeal.

So Today Brisbane reporter, Andrea Crothers, knocked on her door this week to let Jopie know the breakfast show was surprising her with a spa day for her bravery.

Jopie was treated to a massage and a facial at Endota and she was given a goodie bag with gift vouchers for more visits to the spa.

"Oh, fantastic, I've had such a good time - it's so beautiful and I'm so thankful, this makes me feel great," Jopie smiled.

"I've never had a massage before in my life so this is great."

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Jopie was married to her husband Bart for 65 years.

They both survived World War II, growing up during the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands and eventually immigrating to Australia and building a life together.

Since Bart passed a year ago, Jopie's rings were a lasting connection of their enduring love - until they were taken.

And while it's not the same as the originals, Today gifted Jopie a $1000 jewellery gift card to cheer her up.

Watch Jopie's reaction to the sweet surprise in the video above