University staff help nursing graduate share special graduation moment with terminally ill father
Staff at the University of Wolverhampton have gone above and beyond to help a nursing graduate share a once-in-a-lifetime moment with her terminally ill father during the final days of his life.
Danielle Keay, who studied Adult Nursing at the University, was due to graduate on Wednesday 28 January. However, during her studies her father was diagnosed with terminal cancer, leading Danielle to take time away from her course to support her family.
Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing, Helen Bowen, who supported Danielle throughout her studies in Wolverhampton, said the experience was deeply moving.
“Danielle was able to create a beautiful memory with her dad, and they were both able to keep their promises to each other,” she said. “It was an absolute honour to be part of that moment and to support her at such an important and emotional time.”
After returning to complete her degree, Danielle and her father shared a simple but powerful wish – that he would see her graduate.
As his health deteriorated and he was moved into end-of-life care at home, Danielle realised she would not be able to attend the official graduation ceremony. Instead, she hoped to recreate the moment at home, allowing her father to see her wearing her cap and gown and to share in the achievement they had worked towards together.
When University staff learned of Danielle’s situation, teams from across the institution quietly worked together to make it happen. Academic and professional services staff sourced a gown, mortarboard and scroll, arranged for her award to be presented, and supported Danielle in creating a meaningful at-home graduation surrounded by her family.
Danielle has spoken about the strength she drew from her course and the support she received from staff and fellow students throughout her nursing journey. She also paid tribute to her father, crediting him with inspiring her compassion, resilience and determination.
Her father, David Keay, said: “Don’t doubt her fire – she will change the world one day.”
Danielle responded: “Pops, the change is coming.”
Dr Rachel Morgan-Guthrie, Associate Dean for Students and Education, said the moment reflected the values at the heart of nursing and the University community.
“When everything feels hard, moments like this remind us why we do what we do,” she said. “This was about compassion, care and humanity – values that sit at the heart of nursing and of our University.”
Danielle’s at-home graduation took place just days before the formal ceremony, allowing her father to see her reach a milestone that meant so much to them both.
