Dying Cancer Patient Marries Girlfriend in Heartfelt Hospice Ceremony

A poignant wedding ceremony took place at Katharine House Hospice in Stafford on November 11, 2023, when Karl Marsh, a 52-year-old cancer patient, married his girlfriend, Sarah Marsh, aged 42. The couple had initially planned to wed at a registry office, but due to Karl’s deteriorating health, they opted for a ceremony at his hospice bedside.

Karl was diagnosed with tongue cancer in May 2022. As his condition worsened, with the cancer spreading to his lungs, bones, and brain, the couple moved their wedding date forward from November 22 to ensure the ceremony could take place. Staff at the hospice transformed Karl’s room into a makeshift wedding chapel, allowing the couple to exchange vows surrounded by close family and friends.

The emotional ceremony was organized in less than 48 hours, showcasing the generosity of the community. Well-wishers contributed to the event by providing flowers, cake, and venue decorations. A white carpet was laid out to create an aisle for Sarah to walk down, accompanied by about 30 family members and friends.

Reflecting on their relationship, Sarah shared, “We should have done it years ago. One evening we just looked at each other and said, ‘Shall we get married?’ – and that was that.” The couple first met in 2010 as friends and became a couple in 2022. Their decision to marry came after Karl’s cancer diagnosis.

Sarah explained the challenges they faced leading up to the wedding. After a brief return home from the hospital, Karl developed a chest infection, necessitating his re-admission. “When Karl is here, he feels safe and relaxed,” she noted, emphasizing the care provided by the hospice team. “They did so much for us; it truly was the best day we could have wished for.”

The wedding was officiated by Reverend David Clark, who obtained a special wedding license from the Archbishop of Canterbury’s office for the occasion. “It was a joy to officiate at Sarah and Karl’s wedding,” he remarked. “They taught me a great deal about love, resilience, and tenderness.”

The hospice staff played a crucial role in making the day special, transforming their Therapy and Wellbeing Centre into a beautiful wedding venue. The couple’s love story, marked by dedication and support, resonates deeply and serves as a testament to the strength of human connection in the face of adversity.