In July, Claire Welsh, Macmillan Joining the Dots Facilitator for the Derwent Valley AAP area, was supporting David Costello and his long-term partner Janet in the community. David asked Claire whether she could help him look into arranging a wedding ceremony, so he could marry Janet. Due to David’s illness this would need to take place at home.
Claire made this happen in a short space of time. She involved Wellbeing for Life and Honey Rose Foundation, who provided support with funding grants so that David and Janet’s day could be extra special. Claire also had fantastic support from the community who all pulled together to give them a day to remember: Novo Jewellers, Flower Style, Sara’s Kitchen, Lanchester Bridal and local photographer Clive Crumpton.
Sadly David passed away, however not before he could say his vows to Janet and they became husband and wife. After the ceremony Janet told Claire that “It wouldn’t have happened without you.”
Macmillan Joining the Dots County Durham is a free service for people aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with cancer. They also support friends, carers and relatives of any age. The friendly team can support you with many issues and even if you think you don’t need help and support right now, will listen to you and make sure that you have the right information and support when you need it.
Macmillan Joining the Dots County Durham is a partnership between Durham County Council and Macmillan, and delivered by Wellbeing for Life.
For further information about Macmillan Joining the Dots please contact us on e-mail: cddft.joiningthedots@nhs.net website: www.joiningthedots.info Tel: 0800 8766887 or follow Macmillan Joining the Dots on Facebook: www.facebook.com/JTDDurham
