Find local news in Kent

Home   Malling   News   Article

Mum with terminal cancer celebrates wedding in garden of Larkfield home

19:02, 16 April 2021

updated: 19:55, 16 April 2021

Friends and family watched in awe as a mother-of-three today fulfilled her wish of getting married after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Linda Rose Boniface tied the knot with long term partner Mark Boniface in the back garden of their Larkfield home while close relatives joined in with the celebrations on Zoom.

Newlyweds Linda and Mark with son Riley. Picture: Barry Goodwin.
Newlyweds Linda and Mark with son Riley. Picture: Barry Goodwin.

Linda was told on March 5 she has six to nine months to live after her aggressive breast cancer had returned and spread, causing lesions.

With about 12 of them throughout her brain, her only treatment options are life-prolonging but they will not heal her.

The wedding comes just two weeks after friend Kim Linksted set up a Just Giving page to raise money for the 52-year-old to reach the milestone she had been hoping to celebrate for years.

The couple have been together since 2006 and had always talked about getting married but never got round to setting a date.

It was only after Linda was first diagnosed in 2019 the couple started pulling together plans for the big day.

Linda and Mark signing the register
Linda and Mark signing the register

With hospital appointments and Covid-19 getting in the way, the fundraiser meant they were finally able to make their commitment a reality.

The target was set at £1,500 but the total quickly climbed to £6,279.

During the ceremony, the couple's 12-year-old son Riley handed over the rings while they said their vows sat next to Linda's two daughters.

Linda, a former bereavement counsellor who has herself raised thousands for cancer support charities, was blown away by the generosity of well-wishers who donated and said the support has put her mind at ease.

The money left over from the wedding will be put towards funeral costs and supporting the three children and three grandchildren she will leave behind.

To donate, click here for the Just Giving page.

Read more: All the latest news from Malling

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More