An east Hull couple turned an unexpected hospital stay into a heartwarming milestone celebration
Margaret and John celebrating their diamond wedding(Image: Supplied)
A hospital coffee shop might not be the traditional setting for a 60th anniversary, but for east Hull couple Margaret and John McKenzie, it proved to be the perfect spot to celebrate six decades of marriage. The milestone occasion took an unexpected turn when Margaret, 78, fell and severely broke her ankle during a recent trip to Scotland.
Currently receiving treatment as an inpatient on Ward 12 at Hull Royal Infirmary, she was unable to celebrate at home. Undeterred, her husband John, 80, ensured the day did not pass unnoticed and they celebrated at the hospital’s Costa, complete with balloons and sweet treats.
Their daughter, Kelly Westcott, said: “Dad’s been going in to see her twice a day since she was admitted last Thursday and he definitely wasn’t going to let today go by without a celebration. It was nice that rather than staying on the ward, we were able to bring mum down to Costa.
“Lots of people were wishing them happy anniversary and one lovely couple offered to buy them drinks.” The couple’s romance first began six decades ago in Hull’s local nightlife scene.
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While both were regulars at the popular Majestic nightclub, sparks truly flew at the Sombrero club near Holy Trinity Church. After striking up a conversation, John offered to wait at the bus stop with Margaret to ensure she made it home safely.
That chivalrous gesture sparked a 60 year journey together. Today, the couple share a large family that includes three children, five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Well-wishes have poured in from hospital staff and the wider NHS Humber Health Partnership, with everyone hoping Margaret makes a speedy recovery so the pair can return home together soon.
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