A woman and her fiance of 13 years tied the knot in hospital after she was given one year to live.
Bernadette Davies, known as Bernie, and her partner Chris, have been together for 27 years. They tied the knot in front of 25 of their closest friends and family members, including Bernie's four grandchildren.
Bernie was diagnosed with a terminal illness called aplastic anaemia, which is a rare blood condition. She was told she would only live one more year if she didn't get treatment.
There is a bone marrow transplant trial, with the Aplastic Anaemia Trust, is taking place in Leeds and if she can find a donor, Bernie will have a 15% chance of survival. Speaking about her wedding day Bernie told Leeds Live: " It was my sister who contacted Reverend Gladys Mudada at the Trust –who has been an angel - to find out what was possible, after Chris had suggested it...
"We’ve had wedding rings for 13 years but were just waiting for the right time to actually marry. All the staff have been brilliant on Gate 21.
"Especially Sue who decorated the canteen where we held our reception. Sharon who did my nails and Uche who came in on her day off to do my hair and make-up. All the catering staff, particularly Katrina and David who prepared a wonderful buffet. I just want to say a big thank you to them all. They went above and beyond."
Reverend Gladys Mudada of Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust said; "It was a very beautiful ceremony, there was so much love in the air. Everyone had worked together to make the day as warm as possible.
"When we made our way down from the chapel to the Hospital canteen, an area was set aside for the wedding party and all the rest of the people in the room were clapping the bride and groom, it felt very special."
Bernie added: "It really felt like my wedding day. My dad was also able to walk me down the aisle. Sue had booked out a family room for us on the ward for the whole weekend so I had somewhere to get ready, and so Chris and I could have some time together before I went back to my ward bed.
"I cannot thank staff enough. My family and I were able to enjoy the day, each other and just be distracted from my illness for a while. Seeing my grandchildren playing together in the chapel is a memory I cherish."
Bernie's brother is a full bone marrow match and a transplant is all set to take place. This will take place on July 3.
Bernie said: "I’m remaining hopeful and positive. I will be one of the 15% who survive this. When I get the all clear I think I’d like to go to the beach – nowhere too fancy - maybe Bridlington or Scarborough – somewhere along the northern coastline and be by the sea with Chris and the kids."
