‘Incredibly Emotional’ Wedding of Terminally Ill Patient Arranged by the Royal Surrey

Published on: 19 Jul, 2016
Updated on: 21 Jul, 2016

Dave and Lucy Hooker wedding taking their wedding vows at the Royal Surrey

Hospital staff turned wedding planners at the Royal Surrey County Hospital to help a terminally ill cancer patient say: “I do.”

In just 24 hours they managed to create a special and memorable day for David and Lucy Hooker, who tied the knot on Albury Ward on Friday, July 15.

The team sourced everything from a shirt for the groom, to flowers, a wedding cake, refreshments and a photographer to capture the event.

They also transformed a dull meeting room into a make-shift chapel, complete with bunting and fairy lights.

Jo Brown, one of the Trust’s discharge nurses, was instrumental in organising the wedding and was honoured to be asked to be a witness by the couple.

She said: “Royal Surrey is one big family and our patients become part of that family. The whole team pulled together to make sure that Dave and Lucy had the very best day possible.

“It was incredibly emotional, but we all get so much out of helping to create these special memories.”

Dave and Lucy, who had been engaged for a number of years decided to get married after the father-of-four adult sons, who has Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, became seriously ill.

Explaining how the team swung into action on Friday morning, working against the clock to make the day extra special, Jo said: “Lucy thought that she would be marrying Dave in a hospital gown, but we wanted to make sure that there were a few surprises for her.”

“They went above and beyond to make the day extra special for us.”

“I asked Dave if he would mind if I went and bought him a shirt and he was just thrilled. I don’t think I will ever forget the sparkle in his eye.”

The team also bought the couples favourite song – Bruno Mars’ Just the Way You Are – which was played as they exchanged their vows.

Mechanic, Dave, 59, said: “I have been coming to the Royal Surrey for over two years and I have found the staff always willing to put themselves out.”

Mother-of-one Lucy, 33, of Farnborough, Hants, added: “It was definitely a memorable day. Both Dave and I were completely overwhelmed by what the nurses did for us.

“They went above and beyond to make the day extra special for us.”

Chief operating officer and director of nursing Louise Stead, said: “Here at Royal Surrey I am incredibly proud of all our staff who always strive to provide the best care anywhere.

“On this occasion the team put their own time and resources into ensuring that Dave and Lucy had a day to remember. They are not only a credit to this hospital, but also to their profession as a whole.”