Couple celebrates 35th wedding anniversary thanks to The Prince of Wales Hospice
The Prince of Wales Hospice has helped a couple celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary they feared they wouldn’t reach
Just one week before their 35th wedding anniversary, James and Maria Dakin did not know if James would still be there to mark the occasion.
James has been living with prostate cancer since 2017, but his health deteriorated rapidly following two heart attacks and a stroke.
When he arrived at the Hospice, he believed he was coming for end-of-life care.
“I thought I was coming to die," he said.
One of the hardest things James has faced has been losing his independence and mobility.
With support from the Hospice team, the focus has been on managing James’ pain, rebuilding his strength and helping him make the most of the time he has with his family.
Three weeks later, instead of preparing for the end, James is focused on returning home to his family.
One of the things he treasures most is spending time with his granddaughter, Lyla.
James said: "A few weeks ago, I didn’t know if I’d get the chance to spend time with Lyla again. Now we’re sitting in the garden together looking for bugs.
“That’s one of our favourite things to do".
The Hospice has also supported his wider family.
Alongside caring for James, the team has supported Maria and provided wellbeing support for their son Sam, daughter Beth and granddaughter Lyla.
One memory the family will treasure forever came just before their anniversary.
Expecting nothing more than coffee and cake, they were surprised with a special afternoon tea organised by the Hospice Wellbeing Team and The Caring Kitchen.
Surrounded by family and music, the couple celebrated 35 years of marriage together.
Maria said: “It was a very, very emotional day. The week before, we didn’t even know if James would still be here”.
For James, the Hospice has become far more than a place of care.
“You’re not just a patient number; you’re a person. Everyone takes the time to get to know you.
"There are lots of lasts coming, but that’s what this place has given us: time. Time to make memories and appreciate every moment we have together.”