Ayrshire mum battling cancer in hospital realises dream of seeing son get married

A mum battling cancer in hospital was able to fulfil her son’s dream of seeing him get married in a wedding ceremony.

James and his partner Shoni, who live in South Ayrshire, held a ceremony on a ward at University Hospital Crosshouse for his mum Carol in August.

The couple brought their planned nuptials forward from next year following the mum’s sudden cancer diagnosis.

Carol, from North Ayrshire, was an inpatient at the gynaecology ward at University Hospital Crosshouse, and staff rallied to create a special wedding day for her son and partner.

The couple said their vows in front of Carol, close family, managerial and ward staff. She passed away in August this year.

Both families expressed their appreciation for the care and efforts of the hospital staff in making their day truly special.

James said: “It was always a dream of my mum’s to watch me get married, so when I found out how ill she was, I knew right there and then I wanted to make her wish come true.

“Having my mum there was really important for me. She was not just my mum, she was my best friend and the one person I could count on.”

Head of Nursing, Women’s and Children’s Services, Caroline Blake said: “It had been a difficult few months for Carol, becoming so unwell and facing such a challenging time. Being able to watch her son get married was truly wonderful, and she was so happy.

“The staff genuinely care about our patients and were determined to do everything they could to help make the wedding happen.

“It was a humbling experience for the ward team to share such a special moment with Carol and her family.”

Shoni added: “Getting married to James and knowing Carol was going to be there meant more to me than any big fancy wedding.

“When we look back at pictures and see Carol there, we just know we made the right decision.”

Speaking about the arrangements and planning for their wedding day, James and Shoni said: “We both also want to thank the staff for the time and effort they put into making the day as special as it could be for all of us.

“The fact that they were able to arrange everything in just 24 hours was just incredible. It’s a day we both will never forget.”