In a moment that captured the very essence of love, family and compassion, the Prince of Wales Hospital helped make a dream come true for Dominique and her partner Tom, by facilitating a deeply personal wedding ceremony so that Dominique’s beloved mother, Odile, could be part of her daughter’s special day.
Odile, who was receiving end-of-life care at the hospital due to terminal cancer, had always been a guiding light in Dominique’s life. With time heartbreakingly short, Dominique and Tom knew that having Odile there was not just important, it was everything. The Hospital staff, moved by the family’s story, came together with extraordinary kindness to create a beautiful, sunlit wedding setting on the outdoor balcony of the ward.
It was a gesture that transcended clinical care. Nurses, doctors and administration staff worked quietly and compassionately behind the scenes to make it happen, transforming a hospital space into a place of joy, memory and meaning. Odile, surrounded by love, was able to witness her daughter’s wedding, holding her hand and her heart through every moment.
The ceremony was filled with emotion, tears, laughter and quiet reflection. It was not only a celebration of love between Dominique and Tom, but a tribute to Odile’s strength, grace and the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter. Her presence made the day complete and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were there.
“I was hesitant at first about having the ceremony at the hospital,” Dominique said, “but afterwards, I realised—I couldn’t have imagined a better place for it.”
Holly Zamboni, from the Prince of Wales Hospital Foundation, shared:
“Dominique’s story is a wonderful example of how care can extend beyond medicine and into the heart of what makes us human. That’s what is so special about this hospital and its people.”
Dominique and Tom’s wedding is a reminder that even in the most difficult times, joy can flourish. It was a moment of light, a memory that will last forever, honouring Odile’s life and the love she gave so freely.
Congratulations to Dominique and Tom and heartfelt thanks to the hospital staff who helped make this day so meaningful.
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