Staff at the Western Health and Social Care Trust have spoken of how honoured and privileged they felt as they helped to arrange and then attended a very special wedding at Altnagelvin Hospital this week.

There were joyous scenes on Wednesday of this week at Altnagelvin Hospital as patient John (Craig) Boyd and his partner of 44 years, Sandra McDonald, tied the knot at the Derry hospital.

A spokesperson for the Western Health and Social Care Trust said staff from Ward 24 at the hospital and members of staff from the Western Trust’s Palliative Care Team were “honoured to help make a very special occasion possible” for the Ardmore couple.

“It was incredibly important to John and Sandra to celebrate their love and commitment by getting married, surrounded by those closest to them,” a spokesperson for the Western Health and Social Care Trust said, adding:

Trust staff at with newlyweds John Boyd and his partner Sandra McDonald.

placeholder image — Trust staff at with newlyweds John Boyd and his partner Sandra McDonald.

“It was a privilege for our staff to help make their wedding possible and to share in such a deeply personal and meaningful occasion.

“Special moments remind us of the privilege of working in healthcare."

Staff from the Trust have passed on “love and best wishes to the new Mr and Mrs Boyd”.

Personalised For You created the beautiful backdrop for the wedding ceremony at the hospital, while All About Eve Photography captured the special moments on the big day for John and Sandra.

"These ladies helped make their day extra special, with less than 24 hours notice! Thank you so much for your kindness,” the Trust spokesperson said.

Congratulations to the happy newlyweds!