AN Amesbury boy who has complex medical needs stole the show at his parents wedding as support from Julia’s House meant he could take part in every precious memory.
Charmaine and Joe Watkinson’s wedding day had everything they had dreamed of — love, laughter, and even a touch of sunshine after a brief rain shower.
But what made the day truly unforgettable was that their son, Alfie, was able to be centre stage on their special day thanks to the dedicated care of Julia’s House nurses, Elaine and Emily.
With the nurses on hand to provide Alfie’s specialist support, his parents were able to relax and enjoy their special day surrounded by family and friends.
And seven-year-old Alfie soon became the star of the show when, during the ceremony, he suddenly got a fit of the giggles — and just didn’t stop!
His infectious laughter had everyone joining in, filling the day with light-hearted joy.
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Alfie got the giggles during the wedding ceremony Picture: Peter Welland Photography
Looking smart in a suit to match his dad’s, Alfie was proudly pushed down the aisle by his big sister, Tia, carrying a sign on his wheelchair that read: “Daddy, it’s time to give Mummy our last name.“
“It was such a happy, love-filled day that we’ll never forget,” said Alfie’s mum, Charmaine, from Amesbury.
“And it meant the world to have Elaine and Emily there. Alfie absolutely adores them, and they understand him in ways even our closest family couldn’t. Their presence made the day what it was — it simply wouldn’t have been the same without them.”
From getting Alfie dressed to keeping him entertained, fed, and comfortable, nurses Elaine and Emily ensured he had two-to-one care throughout the celebrations at Parley Manor in Christchurch, right up until the wedding breakfast and closing speeches.
Without them, Charmaine and Joe would have had to care for Alfie themselves, but instead, they could relax and truly enjoy every moment, knowing their son was having the best day too.
Alfie loves playing at the Julia’s House children’s hospice Picture: Julia’s House
Julia’s House has been a vital part of Alfie’s family’s life for more than seven years, providing respite care at home and at the hospice, emotional support, play sessions, and complementary therapies.
For Charmaine, their support has been nothing short of life-changing.
“Julia’s House aren’t just there for special occasions. They’ve become our safe space – the people we can always rely on and trust completely with Alfie,” Charmaine said.
“They understand him, they understand us, and they make such a difference to our lives. We honestly don’t know what we’d do without them.”
Julia’s House nurse Elaine said being part of the wedding was incredibly special. “Alfie is cheeky, full of life, and we’ve built a bond over the years,” she said.
Being part of his family’s special day was an absolute honour – it’s why we do what we do.”
Julia’s House is the Wiltshire and Dorset children’s hospice dedicated to supporting children with life-limited conditions and their families across both counties.
The charity provides flexible, tailored respite care at home, in the hospice, and out in the community – helping families make the most of every moment together.
Julia’s House relies on public donations to fund its vital care for families like Alfie’s. To find out how you can support their work, visit www.juliashouse.org.
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