Fernlea’s first wedding

By EMMA SUN
CHOCOLATE love hearts and stars filled Emerald’s Fernlea House as it celebrated the first ever wedding of one of its residents.
Karen White, who has been with Fernlea since the start of the year after being diagnosed with cancer, was married to Dave earlier in the month.
But the party continued at Fernlea where the bride sat on her bridal veil adorned bridal chair and wore a pink sash for the occasion.
She and her bridesmaids, fellow residents, made fresh flower bouquets and all guests enjoyed a piece of her wedding cake.
Fernlea House manager Helen Pike said it was a wonderful day that was enjoyed by all, particularly the thrilled bride-to-be.
“It was the first wedding at Fernlea House so that was really exciting,” she said.
“We were all absolutely thrilled that it was happening for Karen and we wanted to make the party special for her.”
Ms White, who is in her forties, was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer in 2005 and was treated for it before it recurred late last year.
Ms Pike says Ms White visits Fernlea once a week and is loved by all the staff and clients.
She said they were now looking forward to the next big celebration.
Anyone looking to volunteer with Fernlea House can call Helen Pike on 5968 3895.