Worcestershire Man Defies Terminal Cancer Diagnosis to Celebrate Second Wedding Anniversary
A cancer patient from Worcestershire, who was given just days to live and married his partner of four decades on a hospital ward, has celebrated his second wedding anniversary while in remission, declaring that love saved his life.
From Terminal Prognosis to a Joyful Celebration
Bendigo Davies, aged 77, wed his long-term partner Arlaine in January 2024 after being admitted to Worcestershire Royal Hospital with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and a blood clot in his lung. Medical staff had delivered a grim prognosis, estimating he had only days remaining. However, against all odds, Bendigo not only survived but is now marking a significant personal milestone.
"I truly believe the reason I survived is because I knew I was getting married. That hope kept me alive," Bendigo stated, reflecting on his remarkable journey. "We live every day as it comes. You never know what is going to happen tomorrow, so if you want to do something, just do it!"
A Hospital Ward Transformed for a Special Day
Just three days after his admission, the hospital's Laurel 3 ward was transformed into a wedding venue. Patients and staff lined the corridors to celebrate, and 'Here Comes the Bride' was sung as Arlaine walked down a makeshift aisle.
"The wedding was beautiful and such a happy day," Arlaine recalled. "So much of that was down to the incredible people around us. The staff did everything they could to make it ever so special." She admitted the initial period was terrifying, expecting the worst daily but finding solace in the support provided.
Complex Medical Challenges and Ongoing Treatment
Bendigo's condition presented a complex medical challenge. He required urgent treatment with a blood thinner for the clot, but this risked dangerous bleeding due to critically low blood platelets caused by the AML. Consultant haematologist Mr Sangam Hebballi explained the delicate balance required.
"It was a difficult balance of safety and efficacy which had to be done cautiously with very close monitoring," Mr Hebballi said. "We were focusing one day at a time until he was stable enough to start the definitive treatment for AML." Due to his age, Bendigo was not suitable for standard intensive chemotherapy or a stem cell transplant.
Instead, after six weeks in hospital, he was allowed home to enjoy a belated honeymoon with Arlaine. His treatment regimen involves a cycle of Venetoclax and Azacitidine chemotherapy for five full days every six weeks, which he will continue for life. His AML is now in complete remission.
Living Life to the Fullest with Ongoing Care
Bendigo continues to receive his treatment on the Rowan Suite at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, where he praises the dedicated staff. "I couldn't praise the nurses, doctors and staff enough. The care I received was incredible," he said. "I still go to the hospital every six weeks for treatment, and it is lovely to catch up with the staff. They have been amazing."
Mr Hebballi highlighted the positive outcome, noting that the treatment allows the couple to plan holidays, often to Norfolk, between chemotherapy cycles. "Bendigo has overcome multiple complex and life-threatening clinical challenges," he added. "With a positive mindset, he continues to live life to the fullest with his wife."
This inspiring story from Worcestershire serves as a powerful testament to hope, resilience, and the profound impact of love and expert medical care in the face of a life-threatening illness.
