A Community's Touching Tribute
A young father diagnosed with terminal cancer had his final wish granted in a profoundly emotional ceremony, made possible by an outpouring of community support in Dover. Stephen Addley, aged 23, was escorted to his wedding by a surprise convoy of bin lorries organised by his colleagues at Veolia, a gesture that moved him to tears.
A Race Against Time
Stephen's world was shattered in October when doctors delivered the devastating news that he had only months to live. This heartbreaking diagnosis came just three weeks after he had proposed to his partner, Hannah. Determined to make the most of his remaining time, Stephen's primary goal was to marry Hannah and create lasting memories with their one-year-old daughter, Liberty-Rose.
The wedding was held at Bluebirds on Snargate Street, a venue transformed by the generosity of local businesses. The owner, Kay Blue, not only decorated the space but also helped plan the entire day. Hannah's dress was donated, and photographer Matt Hayward was among the many professionals who offered their services free of charge.
Reflecting on the poignant day, Hannah, also 23, said, "We made lovely memories." She added, "There's so much that Liberty-Rose can be told as she grows up, that she can be shown, which is really nice. It meant a lot to us that it could happen."
A Legacy of Love for Liberty-Rose
Stephen's illness stems from an underlying condition, neurofibromatosis type 1, which caused a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour to develop. This is a very rare form of sarcoma, affecting only about 70 people annually in the UK. Initially, surgeons removed a lump from his abdomen in June, but by October, the aggressive cancer had returned, attaching to his bowel. Doctors confirmed that chemotherapy would not be able to stop its spread.
The couple have been open about their fears for their daughter's future. Stephen shared his profound sadness, saying, "I think the biggest thing is, where I'm so young, I've not managed to build up enough to leave her behind. The hardest part is knowing I won’t get to see her grow up."
A fundraising campaign was launched with the hope of sending the family to Disney, but Stephen's health has declined rapidly since the wedding. Hannah explained that the trip may no longer be possible, but she reassured donors that any remaining funds will be secured in a bank account for Liberty-Rose's future. "It will all go into a bank account for her. It's not going to be spent on anything else. It’s hers," she stated.
The family expressed immense gratitude for the support that made their wedding day possible. Hannah said, "We are really grateful for everyone who has chipped in... There are not enough words to thank the people, because it's just so kind, and they did so much."
