Matt Hickling: Nurse ‘Marries’ 4-Year-Old Cancer Patient Abby Sayles, Touching Ceremony Goes Viral

Matt Hickling had a surprise from one of his favorite patients, a 4-year-old girl battling cancer who popped the question and then “married” him in a ceremony that has now gone viral.

Hickling has worked with 4-year-old Abby Sayles at the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Albany Medical Center, where the young girl goes for chemotherapy to treat her leukemia, the Albany Times Union noted. While it is not an easy treatment, family members say Abby looks forward to going in because she gets to see Matt Hickling, her favorite nurse.

So Abby and family decided to surprise Matt with a mock wedding, one that has now captured the hearts across the globe.

The 29-year-old nurse shared the touching incident on Facebook this week, recounting how 4-year-old Abby asked him to marry her.

“Our patient shyly asked me to marry her. I didn’t hesitate to say yes, I got a HUGE hug and we sealed the deal with ring pops being placed on our fingers! We then took a stroll down the hall in our ‘Just Married’ car (well I pushed) and headed back into the room for cake and photos. This is when Dr. Lauren Silverman helped our patient slam cake right in my face!”

There were plenty of people in on the wedding, Hickling explained.

“Our patient stated ‘this is the best day ever’ while hopping around in her beautiful dress, veil and phenomenal bouquet prepared by Enchanted Gardens. All staff signed a photo of my patient and I – which was framed and given to her as a wedding gift and Enchanted Gardens provided her with the doggie flower basket too!”

News of the Matt Hickling “marrying” his young patient has now gone viral, with news spreading past Albany to media outlets across the globe. Video of the ceremony shot by a fellow nurse had more than 13 million views.

Family members are now trying to make the most of the attention, posting a note on the Amazing Abby Facebook page thanking those involved and trying to drum up support for the center where Abby is treated.

“I just want to thank all the people for sharing Abby and Matts story! I love that the awareness is out there and that her clinic and Matt are getting so much attention. They deserve the recognition! They make our visits so much easier and truly get to know their patients! It’s truly amazing!

…

If would like to make a donation to The Melodies Center at Albany Medical Center in honor of Abby, I know they will do wonderful things. Also the Nicks Fight To Be Healed Foundation. This foundation has been there for us since the moment we heard the awful words ‘Abby has Leukemia.’ They have helped finically and emotionally and are a great support team. Thank you again…”

But the wedding was most important for Abby Sayles and Matt Hickling, who said he will always look back on that day and smile.

[Image via Facebook]