When Samantha Barry and her fiancé, Phillip Bastelica, learned that her mother Lynn was moved into hospice care, they made an impromptu decision to tie the knot. The staff at Knoxville’s UT Medical Center went above and beyond to ensure this special day was nothing short of magical.

Extraordinary Acts of Compassion Bring Families Closer in Times of Need

The Unexpected Decision

Samantha Barry had envisioned her wedding for years, originally set for August 2025. However, life took an unexpected turn when her mother Lynn, who had battled illness for over a decade, was transferred to hospice care. The couple realized that time was precious and decided to move their nuptials forward to ensure Lynn could witness this milestone event. This sudden change brought both excitement and urgency, transforming what was once a distant dream into an immediate reality.The decision to wed on that very day was driven by love and the desire to create lasting memories. Barry shared, “We knew we had to act fast. My fiancé rushed to Walmart to get a suit, and I had my mom’s wedding dress as a backup.” This spontaneous decision marked the beginning of an unforgettable journey, one that would be etched in the hearts of everyone involved.

A Team Effort for a Special Day

Once the plan was in motion, the nurses at UT Medical Center’s Progressive Care Unit sprang into action. Kayla Daugherty, the nurse manager, emphasized the importance of supporting patients and their families during critical moments. “You don’t learn about planning weddings in nursing school,” she remarked, “but it was crucial for our patient and her family.”Shailee Dowdy, the team leader nurse, coordinated with various departments to gather essential items on short notice. Dietary services provided a cake, while the gift shop and marketing team ensured all necessary decorations were available. Brittany McCoy added personal touches like aisle markers to create a memorable setting. Within four hours, the hospital chapel was transformed into a picturesque venue for the ceremony.

The Ceremony and Beyond

The wedding took place at UT Medical Center’s Absher Chapel just before Christmas on December 23, 2024. The nurses not only planned the event but also played pivotal roles in its execution. They carefully brought Lynn to the front row so she could watch her daughter walk down the aisle. One nurse even played “Here Comes the Bride” on her phone, adding a heartfelt touch to the occasion.Phillip Bastelica fondly recalled the support from the medical staff, saying, “It felt like having our entire support system around us. Even though many family members couldn’t be there physically, the nurses facilitated FaceTime calls to include everyone.” This extraordinary effort created a sense of unity and warmth, making the day truly unforgettable.

Gratitude and Reflection

For Samantha Barry, the day was more than just a wedding; it was a testament to the compassion and dedication of the medical staff. “We are incredibly grateful to all the nurses who helped us,” she expressed. “It was such a special moment for us, and we’re happy we tied the knot.” The memory of this day will forever be cherished, reminding everyone of the power of love and community in times of need.