Telford couple's happiest day tinged with sadness
[gallery] A couple today described how they organised their dream wedding in just two-and-a-half weeks after receiving devastating cancer news.
Andre and Maria Timberlake-Evans brought their big day forward after finding out he had just months to live.
The Shropshire newly-weds say they are "overwhelmed" by the kindness of family, friends and even strangers who rallied to create their perfect day.
Andre, 39, of Oakengates, Telford, has been diagnosed with incurable brain cancer and doctors say he has 14 to 18 months left.
"We were so touched by the way everyone came together to help us," said Andre who was forced to sell his business of 15 years, Horizon Window Cleaning, when he became ill.
"It's overwhelming to see people's humanity. It really touched us," he added.
Today the inspirational couple insisted they are determined not to worry about what the future holds and to enjoy the time they have together with their 12-year-old son Max.
"This situation puts things into perspective," said Andre. "But I can honestly say I have always stopped and appreciated life. My life was always absolutely perfect. I love my family, my job and my hobbies.
"The time we have now is something to be grateful for rather than bemoaning what we don't have."
Maria, 31, a retail assistant at Asda Living in Wrekin Retail Park, Wellington said: "I am not thinking to myself that he's not going to be here. I'm thinking we are going to have a bit more time together because Andre is tough. He's a fighter."
The couple married at the Hadley Park Hotel in Telford.
"Everyone in that room we loved and it was absolutely magical," Andre added.
See more in Saturday's Shropshire Star
