A woman from Eckington, Derbyshire, has died just days after marrying her long-term partner in a poignant ceremony at Ashgate Hospice. Karen Glossop, 58, exchanged vows with Stephen, 57, her partner of 33 years, in a wedding hastily arranged by hospice staff in a remarkable seven hours.
The couple's original wedding plans were put on hold earlier this year following Karen's cancer diagnosis and a subsequent deterioration in her health. Hospice staff, with assistance from local businesses and volunteers, transformed the courtyard into a wedding venue, allowing Karen and Stephen to be surrounded by family and friends for their special day.
Karen's mother, Elsie Sheppard, described her daughter as a "wonderful person" and expressed the family's devastation at losing her so soon after the wedding. "It's nice to know she got to do it," Elsie said, highlighting Karen's determination to marry. She remembered Karen as a "very bubbly and very honest person" who was always willing to help others, including raising three of her grandchildren.
Stephen, speaking after the ceremony, expressed his gratitude to Ashgate Hospice for making their long-awaited wedding a reality. "We've been together for 33 years and this wedding has been a long time coming," he said. "The day was beautiful and our wedding was so special."
Karen Shepherd, a healthcare assistant at Ashgate Hospice, reflected on the privilege of helping Karen prepare for her day. She noted Karen's strong will to make the wedding happen, describing it as a "beautiful moment, surrounded by so much love." The family has praised the "brilliant" team at Ashgate Hospice for their exceptional care and support during a difficult time.