Anton and Kerrily
When Anton and Kerrily met, they both finally hoped that life was turning around. Things were looking positive and the couple settled into the excitement of being in love, with hope for the future. But life is sadly not always as kind as what we’d like. Anton became sick and was soon diagnosed with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer, a particularly nasty disease which doesn’t respond well to treatment. Kerrily and Anton had planned to have a small ceremony in the gardens of the hospital, however, Doctors soon recommended a bedside ceremony as soon as possible, followed by a family gathering a few days later. So on the 22nd May 2019 with Anton’s condition quickly deteriorating, Kerrily made contact with My Wedding Wish, speaking to CEO, Lynette.
Lynette contacted Marriage Celebrant, Lisa Brereton who was eager to jump into action, and on the morning of Friday, 24th May, 2019, Lisa submitted the couple’s Shortening of Time into Births, Deaths and Marriages, Brisbane. The wait was excruciating as the wedding was booked for 4pm, bedside, at Redcliffe Hospital. When BDM approval finally came through, Lisa made her way to the couple and was greeted by so many family members, she said, “It was amazing, and they were all so welcoming and happy to see me.” Anton and Kerrily have children from previous relationships and most of them were able to make it, along with Kerrily’s mum, and their precious granddaughter. The couple also had some very good friends who were the official witnesses. A few hospital staff members joined in to watch and celebrate this special ceremony.
Kerrily was as nervous as any bride, and Anton looked very sharp in his collared shirt and yellow rose buttonhole, sitting up in his hospital bed anxiously waiting for his bride. As you can well image, there were lots of tears, and the ceremony was very emotional.
What a beautiful surprise when one of the nurses wheeled in a trolley with a small cake and a few bottles of bubbles for everyone to toast to the happy couple.
Lisa said, “As the celebrant I felt sad, but also happy. Sad for this family who are going through such a difficult time, but happy that I was able to grant them this one last wish. I was able to make them smile just for a little while, and to help them remember and focus on the love they have for each other.”
Lisa was touched to receive the following message from Kerrily not long after she arrived home:
“I cannot thank you enough for your time, patience and professionalism with us today. I cannot tell you how much we both appreciate it. Your gentle approach to our delicate situation was very touching. Thank you! Mr & Mrs Smith.”
Sadly, the family reception which was planned for the Sunday in the hospital gardens had to be cancelled as Anton’s condition worsened. Anton passed away on Saturday 1st June just a week and one day after he married his beautiful bride.
The Wedding Wish Supplier – who generously donated their services to support this amazing couple’s wedding:
Celebrant:
Lisa Brereton
