Loyola staff organizes patient wedding at hospital

MAYWOOD, IL – Darren Wiley and his fiancé, Ivy, chose their wedding date of March 14 as a symbol of new beginnings for their growing family, coinciding with the address of their new apartment, 314. However, Darren's recent leukemia diagnosis made their wedding plans seem impossible. Thanks to the support of the Loyola University Medical Center staff, Darren and Ivy tied the knot in a memorable ceremony before the birth of their first child next month. 

Just two weeks ago, during a routine physical examination that included blood work, Darren received shocking news: he had been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). He was transferred to Loyola to receive treatment from its renowned bone marrow transplant and stem cell transplant program. Darren has received induction chemotherapy and is awaiting further recovery and another bone marrow biopsy to determine the next step in his treatment.

"The vows say ‘in sickness and in health’ and you naturally assume that will come later in life, but it can happen at any time," said Ivy. "That part of the vows really holds true for us. Darren is sick and I will always be there for him.  We’re hopeful he can be there for the birth of our baby and for her life." 

Having obtained their marriage certificate and recognizing they would be spending their wedding day in the hospital, the couple asked if they could be married in Loyola’s chapel. The hospital chaplain was determined to assist the young couple keep their meaningful date. She and her team organized a wedding centered around the theme of new beginnings. 

"At Loyola, our motto is 'we also treat the human spirit' and that's exactly what we were able to do for Darren and Ivy today," said ceremony officiant Stephanie Welsh, spiritual care manager at Loyola University Medical Center. "We were all so moved by their story and their high spirits despite their circumstances. It was an honor to be a part of their special day."

Darren and Ivy were married in the hospital's chapel surrounded by friends, family, doctors, nurses and hospital staff. With the permission of his medical team, Darren was able to kiss his bride. A reception was held for the newlyweds’ and their loved ones, catered by the hospital's chef. 

"I'm grateful for the love and support of everyone around us and for the people at Loyola who helped us keep our wedding date," said Darren. "I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with Ivy and our baby girl."