A couple who wed at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit last year are celebrating an anniversary they didn’t think they would reach.
Brian had Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and was being treated at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre. When his condition deteriorated and he was moved to the ICU, Brian and his long-term partner Sam Smith decided to get married.
The staff and volunteers of the ward banded together to make this happen. A nurse played wedding photographer, another chose the Miles Davis soundtrack and the team supplied a cake and chocolates.
Ishaku Bitrus, Healthcare Chaplain, facilitated the ceremony on 12 July 2019, along with assistance of a trainee healthcare chaplain Mackenzie Newham.
Seven months later, Brian’s cancer is now in remission. Sam took to Twitter to give thanks to the staff at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
Sam told us: “When you’re in the middle of a situation like that, you can’t thank people as much as you want to.
“We know nurses and doctors are medically trained but the bit that makes the difference are the moments of kindness.
“From the consultant who stroked my husband’s hand, to the nurse who played wedding photographer, we are so grateful for the staff who pulled out all of the stops to make our wedding possible.”
Weddings are made possible on-site by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Healthcare Chaplaincy service, who provide spiritual and emotional support to patients and their families.
Ishaku, Healthcare Chaplain, said: “It was my privilege as a healthcare chaplain to have officiated their wedding at a very difficult time for both of them. I’m delighted to hear that Brian is doing well.
“As healthcare chaplains, we provide anyone of any background with spiritual care and support, especially during challenging times. Sam and Brian’s wedding was one of those significant moments when I was able to stand alongside patients and help them express their wishes and love.”