Christopher & Hone

(Aged 41 & 43)

Hone:

“I want to make sure he has the send off he deserves – there will be lots of extravagant outfits, amazing food and most definitely Karaoke (I can’t promise I won’t cry, but I will definitely sing!)”

We had been together over two decades before we decided to say I do, I always said that not being married didn’t mean we loved each other any less. But then Christopher’s health deteriorated and we both agreed that we wanted to make that legal commitment. Our wedding was truly the best day.

Christopher has been so brave and so practical about the future, he said he didn’t want to leave anything unplanned for his family to try and navigate when he’s gone. He’s a true warrior and I want to make sure he has the send off he deserves – there will be lots of extravagant outfits, amazing food and most definitely Karaoke (I can’t promise I won’t cry, but I will definitely sing!).  He has started to engage the services of the death doula  as he knows he needs that independent voice to help him and is adament, he wont burden me as his sickness takes over.  

He has told me how much he wants our life together to be celebrated, he has already specified that our wedding first dance song be played – ‘Everything’ by Michael Buble. And apparently I have to wear something smart and sophisticated ‘Don’t turn up looking like you are about to spend the day at the beach Dominic! Make an effort!’
Christopher’s sister Kate was our best woman for the big day so it makes perfect sense that she will lead his celebration of life. She and he have agreed the flowers will be OTT, he wants his coffin to be brightly painted and have messages from all his friends and family. Go big or go home has always been our motto.
The one thing Christopher has been very specific about is what will be inscribed on his memorial plate (I admit to not wanting to discuss it initially but now I can’t think of anything more fitting…….)

Chris wants to cremated and his ashes to be with me until I die, when we can both be interred together at his family urupa in Northland.  It’s such a proviledge for me to be included there.