Terminally ill man from Pollok marries his sweetheart

Peter Pender, who has less than six months left to live after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of bladder cancer, fought back tears as his beautiful bride Diane walked down the aisle.

The couple were surrounded by their three children and close family as they tied the knot at Thomas Coats Baptist Church in Paisley yesterday.

Peter, 53, from Pollok, said: “This has been a very emotional experience for us both.

"I was determined to put on a brave face, but as soon as I saw Diane, I just thought how beautiful and happy she looked. I'm not ashamed to admit I had a tear in my eye.

“The past few months have been difficult for us all but planning our big day has given us something positive to focus on. We want to create as many memories as we can before I pass away and we've done that here with the people who mean the most to us.

"Our wedding was just so special, and it was important to us to finally get married after all these years together. I feel like the luckiest man in the world and am so grateful that we did this surrounded by our families and friends so they can carry this day with them forever."

The Glasgow Times was given an exclusive invitation to the touching service, conducted by celebrant Rhona McLachlan, who welcomed over 100 guests as they were piped into the opulent church.

Diane walked down the aisle to A Thousand Years by Christina Perri before a heartfelt poem called Here’s To Right Now - reflecting the couple's wish to make every moment count - was read to emotional close friends and family.

Diane, 43, said: “I was so nervous before walking into the church but as soon as I saw Peter all my nerves just melted away. We’ve waited a long time for this day and we are determined to celebrate and remember all the happy times we’ve shared.

“Peter is just amazing. Despite everything he’s coping with he’s been very hands-on with planning the ceremony. Our wedding was just the way we wanted it, surrounded by love and positivity.”

There was barely a dry eye as the couple left the chapel to Tina Turner's The Best before heading off to their reception, where they were given a raucous welcome before being cheered as they took to floor for their first dance, which was Unchained Melody by the Righteous Brothers.

Wedding Wish Makers stepped in to help the couple arrange their big day and worked with a host of big-hearted suppliers to make the day as affordable as possible for the couple. 

The charity's founder Suzanne Stevenson said: “As soon as we heard Peter and Diane’s story, we immediately wanted to help.

"We’ve been overwhelmed by the incredible response and generosity of everyone who has made this day possible. So many businesses got in touch offering to help with everything from bridesmaid dresses to wedding cars and a videographer.

“They are an incredible couple who have coped with so much. It was such a privilege to help make their wedding dream day come true.”

As reported by the Glasgow Times previously, dad-of-three Peter was diagnosed with bladder cancer in September 2016 after noticing blood in his urine.

Doctors discovered a tumour in his bladder, and this was removed, as well as his prostate and lymph nodes.

The couple were told the surgery had been a success and that the tumour and any cancerous cells surrounding it were gone. Peter was also put on a clinical trial at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in a bid to help other sufferers.

But in a devastating turn of events, a CT scan to mark the end of the trial in March this year showed his cancer had returned. A further scan in April revealed it was terminal and he is now on borrowed time.

Peter added: “I've always been determined to fight and I'm over the moon that we've made it down the aisle. I was planning my funeral and thanks to this wonderful charity instead I began planning my wedding.

"They have helped make our dreams come true and I can't thank them enough. We’ve been so touched by the kindness of people who have donated their services and skills to make this day one none of us will ever forget.

“I don’t know how long I have left but I’m determined to enjoy every second. I get tired easily and can’t walk far anymore, but I will make the most of every ounce of life while I still can.

 "I’m so proud to call Diane my wife. She really is simply the best in my eyes.”