Stafford hospice wedding ‘was the best day’, couple say

A couple who married in a hospice wedding arranged in 48 hours after the groom’s health suddenly declined “should have done it years ago”, the bride has said.

Karl and Sarah Marsh were due to wed at Stafford Registry Office on 22 November.

But when Mr Marsh, who was diagnosed with cancer in May last year, was readmitted to the town’s Katharine House Hospice, he asked if the ceremony could be brought forward and held there instead.

“What they did for us was beyond words. It truly was the best day we could have wished for,” Mrs Marsh said.

The pair married on Sunday and said the hospice team had been “incredible”.

Staff pulled out all the stops, securing donations to transform a therapy centre into a wedding venue with flowers, petals and a white-carpet aisle.

The newly-weds first met in 2010 and later renewed their friendship in Christmas 2022. Following Mr Marsh’s diagnosis, they finally decided to tie the knot.

“We should have done it years ago,” Mrs Marsh said. “One evening we just looked at each other and said, ”shall we get married?’ — and that was that.”

Mr Marsh was transferred to the hospice’s care in October, where his symptoms were managed as he continued radiotherapy.

After a spell in hospital with a chest infection, his symptoms worsened and he was readmitted to the hospice, putting the couple’s original wedding plans in doubt.

But volunteer chaplain the Reverend David Clark managed to secure a special licence to officiate in front of 30 friends and family members at the hospice, and described it as a “joy” and a “privilege”.

“They taught me a great deal about love, resilience and tenderness,” he said.

Inpatient lead nurse Georgia Simmons said local businesses Head Over Heels Venue Dressing and Sainsbury’s Stafford donated decorations, food and a wedding cake.

“It felt amazing to make this happen for Karl and Sarah,” Ms Simmons added. “Their love is truly inspiring.”

Mrs Marsh described the hospice as an “amazing place”.

“When Karl is here, he feels safe and relaxed,” Mrs Marsh said. “The team are incredible — nothing is ever too much.”