The power of love | News

In an extraordinary love story spanning more than six decades, Kenneth Sharp (85), a patient on Ward 11 at Dewsbury and District Hospital, and Marian Kenward (85), recently exchanged marriage vows at the hospital, proving that love knows no bounds, even in the face of life's trials and tribulations.

Marian and Kenneth's journey began when they met at a friend’s party when they were 15 years old. Fate brought them together again six months later when Kenneth asked Marian out on a date. Marian fondly recalls the first thing that attracted her to Kenneth – his striking black hair and handsome presence.

In 1958, when they were both 20, they made their commitment official in Leeds, exchanging vows surrounded by friends and family. 

The couple’s love continued to bloom with the birth of their son, Paul, in 1959.

Kenneth pursued a career in textiles, initially as a weaver and later as a salesman for Louis Lepoutre's UK office in London. His work involved selling fabric to renowned names like Marks & Spencer for ladies' wear and suits. Marian worked as Kenneth’s secretary and played an integral part in his work.

After 37 years of marriage, Marian and Kenneth faced separation and divorce which lasted 10 years. Marian remarried and divorced for a second time but stayed in touch with Kenneth. Their bond remained strong, and in the year 2000, they decided to give their love another chance. When they shared the news of their rekindled love with their son Paul, it came as a pleasant surprise to him.

In recent years the couple’s love has faced significant challenges. Kenneth had two strokes around 12 years ago, and Marian stepped up as his carer during his recovery. Last Christmas, Marian suffered a heart attack, adding to their shared health struggles.

Recently, Kenneth was in Pinderfields Hospital for an operation to address a basal cell carcinoma on his leg. Unfortunately, he contracted a severe infection after the operation, leading to a significant decline in his health.

During these ordeals, Marian proposed the idea of marrying again. Despite years of postponement, their desire to once again validate their love remained strong. When the hospital staff learned of their wish to marry, they sprang into action to make it a reality.

Practice Educator Kayleigh and Ward Manager Emma took charge of organising the wedding event. Kayleigh said: “In just two hours, we had secured donations from local businesses and generous individuals who provided cakes, afternoon tea, flowers, decorations, and photography, and we’d like to thank them all for their kind-heartedness.”

Emma also arranged a registrar to perform the marriage ceremony who had to secure a special dispensation for the hospital setting. Staff members assisted with Marian's makeup and hair, and Head of Nursing Lisa Dixon arranged beautiful centrepiece flowers. 

Hospital staff lined the corridors to offer their heartfelt blessings as the couple were wheeled to the Management Suite at Dewsbury and District Hospital for their wedding on Friday 22 September. The venue was adorned with blossom trees, flowers and rose petals, creating a picturesque setting. The touching ceremony was witnessed by hospital staff who had come together to celebrate their wedding.

Following the wedding Kenneth was discharged from hospital and spent a few days in a residential home. Unfortunately he was readmitted to hospital when his health deteriorated further, where he sadly died on 5 October.

Throughout their life together, Marian and Kenneth shared a passion for travel, embarking on cruises around the world. They treasured every holiday and looked forward to booking their next adventure, although Kenneth was equally content to stay at home and watch his beloved rugby. In his younger days, he had been an amateur rugby league player for Bramley, Leeds, and he remains an ardent supporter of Leeds Rhinos. Cricket was another of his great passions, and he had recently enjoyed a visit to Headingley Cricket Ground to watch the Ashes cricket match.

Kenneth’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the businesses and local companies who generously contributed to the wedding:

• I C Cakes, Heckmondwike – wedding cake
• Mrs Bouquets, Batley – bouquet and buttonhole
• Granthams Bakers, Batley – afternoon tea
• Lisa Dixon, Head of Nursing at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust – centrepiece flowers
• Robbo's Cakery, Cleckheaton – cake
• Tesco, Batley – decorations
• Smiler Photos, Bradford – photography

 

Photos courtesy of Smiler Photos, Bradford.