A devoted husband, father, Royal Marine, and rugby player, Nathan’s journey was tragically brief but filled with love and unforgettable moments.

 

Nathan, 28, started his rugby journey in Settle with North Ribblesdale’s junior teams. He advanced through the ranks to play for their men’s team before joining Colne and Nelson Rugby Club. Later settling in Barnoldswick, Nathan was known as a warm-hearted teammate and a dedicated family man, earning admiration both on and off the field.

 

In the summer of 2023, Nathan proposed to his partner, Amelia, a long-time player for the North Ribblesdale Ladies team. Together with their baby boy, Noah, they looked forward to a bright future together. However, in late October, their world was turned upside down when Nathan suddenly became unwell. A visit to Urgent Care revealed the devastating diagnosis of Stage 4 NUT carcinoma, an exceptionally rare and aggressive cancer. Doctors confirmed on the 21st November that no treatment could stop its progression.

 

Determined to make the most of their time together, Nathan and Amelia focused on creating lasting memories for themselves and their son. While at Airedale Hospital, Nathan expressed his wish to spend his final days at home, surrounded by his loved ones. Our Hospice at Home team worked closely with the family, providing care that allowed Nathan to remain comfortable and at peace in familiar surroundings.

 

In a beautiful whirlwind of love, on the evening of Friday, 22nd November, Nathan and Amelia fulfilled their dream of becoming husband and wife in an intimate ceremony at home. The wedding, officiated by Reverend Sheena, came together in just a few hours, thanks to the tireless efforts of family, friends, and the local community. Our Hospice at Home nurses arrived early in the morning, bringing light-up balloons to make the living room feel more festive, and banners were lovingly arranged to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

 

Family and friends travelled from across the UK, and some even flew in from Miami to be there for Nathan and Amelia’s special day. Despite the short notice and snowy weather, the outpouring of love and support was extraordinary. The couple’s living room was transformed into a wedding venue, complete with stunning floral arrangements from House of Flowers, wedding rings provided by Huppach Jewellers, and a beautiful cake made by a family friend.

 

On Saturday, the celebrations continued with a gathering presided over by Reverend Sheena. Friends, teammates, and neighbours lined the streets to show their support for the young family.

 

Organising such a heartfelt event in so little time was nothing short of a miracle. From skilled hairdressing to thoughtful contributions from loved ones, every detail reflected the love and admiration people felt for Nathan and Amelia. Special thanks went to Stuart Hoskins-Owen from Airedale Hospital and Reverend Sheena, who went above and beyond to secure the special license needed for the wedding to take place.

 

With deep sadness, on Sunday, 24th November, Nathan passed away at home, in Amelia’s arms, surrounded by loved ones. 

 

 

Nathan’s courage, warmth, and kindness have left a lasting mark on everyone he met. A family friend and one of Amelia’s teammates created a GoFundMe page to help the family make precious memories together and to provide for Noah’s future. To date, this incredible effort has raised nearly £100,000, a reflection of the immense love and support surrounding Nathan, Amelia, and Noah.

 

“We can’t believe the outpouring of love and support we’ve received,” Amelia shared, before offering a heartfelt tribute to Nathan: “Forever 28. The love of my life, I am so thankful for our four years together, and even more grateful to have been your wife for your final two days. I will love you and miss you every single day. You’ve taken a piece of my heart with you up there, and I will be counting down the days until we can be together again. Forever my Nat Nat.”

 

A service to celebrate Nathan’s life will take place on Monday, 16th December. The service will take place at Holy Trinity Church in Barnoldswick at 12.00noon, followed by a burial attended by immediate family only.

 

The family has kindly requested that only family flowers are sent, but donations are welcomed in Nathan’s memory to Pendleside Hospice, which we are so very grateful for.

 

Following the service, friends and family are invited to gather at Colne & Nelson Rugby Club to raise a glass and share fond memories of Nathan.