Karen and Stephen Glossop, who had been together for 33 years, married in the bride's hospice bed on Thursday, July 2, 2026, after Karen received a terminal cancer diagnosis earlier in the year. The ceremony took place at Ashgate Hospice in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England.
The couple, who had always planned to marry but were delayed by life and raising their four children, Kym, Luke, Rebecca, and Samantha, were supported by hospice staff and local businesses. Their four children and five grandchildren were able to attend the service on short notice.
Stephen Glossop, a retired lorry driver, stated that the wedding had been a long time coming but was made possible through the swift efforts of the hospice staff and community volunteers. "Everyone was astounding, making it all fall into place in just hours," he said. Local businesses contributed flowers, photography, a wedding cake, and a buffet for the occasion.
Senior staff nurse Kayleigh Peacock described the event as a privilege and expressed gratitude for the community's involvement. "Seeing everyone come together to make the day happen so quickly was incredibly special, and we’re grateful to everyone who gave their time, skills and generosity to make it possible," Peacock stated.
The ceremony provided a special moment for the family, with Karen reportedly loving seeing everyone gathered. The couple expressed profound gratitude to Ashgate Hospice for facilitating the wedding.