Mum celebrates daughter's wedding blessing thanks to Stafford hospice
A mum diagnosed with an incurable illness has been able to see her daughter’s wedding celebration thanks to Stafford’s Katharine House Hospice.
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Lynn Ecclestone saw Jade and husband Joe exchange vows in a special ceremony organised by staff at the charity.
Lynn was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2018 and up until five months ago was still actively playing football.
Jade and Joe – who wed in a ceremony at Stafford’s Shire Hall on Saturday - brought their wedding plans forward so Lynn could be part of their special day.
Staff at the hospice helped the family decorate Lynn’s room and provided glasses of bubbly, flowers and a cake made by hospice chef, Steve.
Guests at the blessing also included Lynn’s husband George and her two other daughters Elise and Holly, as well as Holly’s partner Aaron.
Holly said: “Unfortunately, mum couldn’t make the wedding day on Saturday, so it was important for us as a family that we could celebrate the marriage with her.
“The wedding blessing at the hospice allowed mum to be a part of Jade and Joe’s celebration so she feels like she has experienced it in some way.
“Every moment is precious for our family at the moment so it is nice to have some special and happy memories. We did it for mum to feel peace.
“Staff at the hospice have been remarkable. The love and care they have shown to our mum has been second to none as she has found comfort there.”
Husband George said: “We are grateful to everyone at the hospice for a very special day. The hospice is a place where it really is dignified care and Lynn has been made to feel like a person and not just a patient.”
Pamela Robson, Healthcare Assistant at the In-Patient Unit, said staff were more than happy to help with the big day.
“Lynn was too poorly to go to the wedding in Stafford so we suggested a wedding blessing at the hospice. The family dressed the room for the occasion, one of our chefs, Steve, made a cake and our vicar, Reverend David Clark, was able to do the blessing.
A fundraising page has been set up by Lynn’s family and friends. More information here: justgiving.com/page/storm-barratt-1
“The family came in to see Lynn on the day of the wedding too, so Lynn could see her daughter’s dress. It’s always nice to help people.”
