Dream wedding comes true for Drumquin mother with terminal illness

A DRUMQUIN mother who is suffering from terminal cancer enjoyed her dream wedding in the company of family and friends on Friday.

Darren and Danielle Collins (nee Donnelly) were married at an special ceremony at the Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh, which was organised in less than two months thanks to the generosity of countless businesses.

Just over a year ago, Danielle had learned of her terminal cancer diagnosis - adenocarcioma of the stomach - just weeks after giving birth to her youngest child.

Amidst unimaginable grief, the couple knew they wanted to get married as soon as possible, and soon after setting a date in July, they were inundated with offers of help from near and far.

And the end result was truly something from a fairytale. In the presence of their children Jamie (one), Tianna (3), Kayla (12), Shanice (14) and Edward (17), and some 200 guests, the now husband and wife said their vows at a heartfelt ceremony, before dancing the night away!

For Danielle, having her mum, Donna Logue, sing at her wedding was a particular highlight - and she said her heart has been "touched indefinitely" by the generosity shown in the run up to the big day.

Danielle said: "I honestly can’t thank every single person enough, from the bottom of our hearts, who who offered their services and supported us in helping us make our dream wedding happen in seven short weeks.

"Fionnuala McMenamin Photography was amazing from start to finish along with John from Orchard Video. To the Silverbirch Hotel for the venue and services, all the staff, and most of all Tara the wedding co-ordinator, everything was perfect and we couldn't have asked for more.

"Thanks also must go to McElhinney's of Ballybofey or my dream bridal dress, to Chatristhome Flowers, and to Heavenly Treats for our beautiful wedding cake, which everyone loved! To 1983 for kitting out the boys from head to to, to 'Look Events' for decorating the room, and to Glendale Limousines for the cars, everything was fantastic.

"Soulmates were our band and everyone loved their music, and to me the highlight of the music was my mummy singing at my wedding. Of course, we have to thank My Omagh for all their help and support and for spreading the word.

"As you can imagine, these are mainly the bigger things but there was a lot of other support we received to help in bringing our day together. Precious pieces, make-up by Clodagh McLaughlin, hair by Grainne Patterson, Argus opticians, Hazel Allen Jewellers, Orchard Rose Designs, Bling Ne Thing, Scene Setters, Aine Nugent Music, Wee Buns, Disney Delights, Ian Irwin, the list goes on!

"There are still a lot more people to thank, and it would be impossible to thank everyone individually. But from the bottom of our hearts we thank you all,for all the comments, texts, calls of well wishes. You have all touched our hearts indefinitely."

Danielle continued: "We tried not to make our wedding day about my illness and we tried to celebrate as a normal family. It was bitter sweet, there was a lot of tears.

"I’m back at hospital today (Wednesday) for CT results and chemotherapy, and then we are looking forward to Edward's 18th birthday in a few weeks."