'Love conquers all' – Wakefield couple marry on intensive care unit

Reporting from Yorkshire, BBC News journalist Jessica Bayley shares the heartwarming story of 49-year-old David Fontana and his now-wife, Joanne Stringfellow. The couple, who first bonded over Jennifer Rush’s classic hit “The Power of Love,” recently tied the knot at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield under extraordinary circumstances.

Struggling with a rare autoimmune lung condition, Mr. Fontana found himself in single organ failure and heavily reliant on medical support. With his health rapidly declining, the couple decided to take the leap and get married before it was too late. Staff at Pinderfields Hospital went above and beyond to ensure the couple’s wedding on April 29 was a memorable and special occasion.

Despite the challenges of Mr. Fontana’s deteriorating health, the couple’s wedding day was filled with love, hope, and unexpected joy. Surrounded by six close friends and hospital staff, the pair exchanged vows while overlooking Mr. Fontana’s improvement post-ceremony, which he described as “surreal” after watching a video of the event created by hospital staff.

Reflecting on their unique wedding, the newlyweds expressed gratitude for the love and support that carried them through such a difficult time. Mrs. Fontana shared, “Love conquers all, and it is the love and care between us that has spurred him on, though science will probably say that it was the drugs kicking in.” This extraordinary love story serves as a reminder of the power of love, even in the face of adversity

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