A Derbyshire hospice pulled out all the stops to arrange a wedding for a terminally ill patient in under seven hours. Staff transformed the courtyard of the inpatient unit at Ashgate Hospice so Karen Glossop could marry her long-term partner.
Couple's 33-Year Journey to the Altar
The couple had been together for 33 years before tying the knot in front of their close family and friends. Dozens of people including local businesses and volunteers came together to create the unforgettable celebration.
The wedding plans had to be changed quickly after 58-year-old Karen was diagnosed with cancer. Her health deteriorated rapidly, meaning the original plan to marry at a local hotel had to be postponed.
Groom's Gratitude
Stephen, 67, a retired HGV driver, commented: “We’ve been together for 33 years and this wedding has been a long time coming. But the day was beautiful and our wedding was so special. I am so grateful to Ashgate for making it happen. Everyone was astounding, making it all fall into place in just hours.”
The couple from Eckington share a large family including a son, three daughters, and five grandchildren. Family has always been central to their lives, from holidays in Cornwall to trips to the Canary Islands.
Family and Community Rally Together
Stephen added: “We never found the time to get married. The kids came along and then life took over. But it was always our plan. I was so glad that we were able to get so many people together at such short notice at Ashgate. Some of our family are away, but we were able to gather 22 guests at short notice and Karen loved seeing everyone together. It will be something I’ll always remember, and I’ll be forever grateful to the team at Ashgate.”
Kayleigh Peacock, senior staff nurse of Ashgate Hospice, said: “It was a privilege to help Karen and Stephen celebrate such an important moment together. Seeing everyone come together to make the day happen so quickly was incredibly special, and we're grateful to everyone who gave their time, skills and generosity to make it possible.”
Community Generosity Made It Possible
Generous support from the community helped make the rushed celebrations a reality. Hospice kitchen worker Kelly Sydenham prepared a wedding cake and buffet, while volunteer photographer Ellie Rhodes captured the memories and Fresh Ideas Florists donated the flowers.
Location: Chesterfield, Derbyshire
