14/06/2026
A gentle note: this post mentions terminal illness and bereavement.
On 14th June last year I had the absolute privilege of marrying Matthew and Carrie.
These absolutely beautiful human beings decided to get married after Matthew received the devastating diagnosis of terminal cancer. It wasn't a knee jerk reaction; marria
ge had always been part of their plans. But the prognosis sharpened their focus on what mattered most, here and now.
Together with their family and friends, they created a wedding that was a celebration of life, love and everything that truly matters. Unsurprisingly, there were tears of both sadness and joy.
Things I will always take from that day:
🩷The sheer happiness they found in simply being together.
🩷Their unwavering commitment t face whatever life might bring, side by side.
🩷The importance of family and friends in both the best and hardest of times. Having loved ones involved through readings, candle lighting and handfasting made that visible throughout the ceremony.
🩷 Matthew's absolute determination to walk with Carrie down the aisle - something many of us take for granted.
🩷The extraordinary power of love, not only in times of joy, but in the face of life's greatest challenges.
Sadly, this beautiful couple only had a few months together as a married couple before Matthew passed away.
Matthew died knowing he was deeply loved by his wife, family and friends, and he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Myself included.
Sending love to Carrie, family and friends on this bittersweet anniversary.
Photos by Colin Ross