Man dies from terminal cancer after marrying sweetheart

A man from Warwickshire who proposed to his sweetheart moments after being diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer has died.

Heartfelt tributes have been pouring in for father-of-three Chris Clark who married Charlotte Barnes after being told the devastating news in October 2012.

Although Chris, originally from Offchurch near Leamington, was told he may only have months to live, the freelance photographer defied doctors’ expectations and withstood more than 60 gruelling rounds of chemotherapy over the course of nearly three years.

He passed away in Charlotte’s arms earlier this month at the age of 43.

Charlotte, who now lives in Long Itchington, said:

After receiving the devastating news at Warwick Hospital, Chris popped the question to Charlotte and the pair planned their dream wedding from his hospital bed. It took place ten days later near their home at St Gregory’s Church in Offchurch.

The happy couple were surrounded by around 300 family and friends including Chris’s children Connor, 22, Logan, 19 and Sennen, 17 from a previous marriage.

“It was the most amazing and magical day,” said Charlotte, 32. “When I look back at photos we both look so happy.

“It was clear cancer took a back seat that day. I’m so lucky I got to meet and marry a man as amazing as Chris. I thank God for every day he gave me with him.”

The social worker has now signed up to take part in Race for Life in Chris’s honour to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

In 2013 Charlotte and Chris had the honour of starting Coventry city centre’s Race for Life before Charlotte joined in and raised nearly GBP3,000 for vital research.

Adding to the floods of tributes on Facebook, Chris’s daughter Sennen said: “You inspired so many including myself to push themselves, never give in and stay positive.

“Everyday I will strive to make you proud my hero, best friend and teacher. I know you’re still here with me. Love you always.”