University of Wolverhampton helps student fulfil promise to her father ahead of graduation

Danielle Keay, who studied Adult Nursing at the University, was due to graduate on Wednesday 28 January. During her studies, Danielle’s father was diagnosed with terminal cancer, leading her to take a period of leave from her course.

After returning to complete her degree, Danielle and her father shared a simple but powerful goal: that he would see her graduate.

As his health deteriorated and he was moved to end‑of‑life care at home, Danielle knew she would not be able to attend the formal graduation ceremony. Instead, she hoped to recreate a graduation moment at home, surrounded by her family, so her father could see her in cap and gown and share in the achievement they had both worked towards.

When colleagues at the University learned of Danielle’s situation, staff from across the institution worked quickly and quietly to make this possible. Academic and professional services teams came together to source a gown, mortarboard and scroll, arrange for her award to be presented, and support Danielle in creating a meaningful moment for her and her family.

Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing, Helen Bowen, who supported Danielle throughout her studies, said: “Danielle was able to create a beautiful memory with her dad, and they were both able to keep their promises to each other. It was an absolute honour to be part of that moment and to support her at such an important and emotional time.”

Danielle has spoken about the strength she drew from her time on the course and the support she received from staff and fellow students throughout her nursing journey.

Reflecting on her experience, she said: "Finally, I dedicate this to my dad.  You’re the one who has always told me to never change, the one who fuelled my crazy spirit and believed in me when it felt like the world did not understand. But more than that, you were the one who realised I have endless amounts of love and care to give to every person I meet. This fire I have in me that pushes me to want more is because of you.  Cancer pain management is something incredibly close to my heart, and one day I hope to contribute to the reduction in pain for both patients who live with brain cancer, and their families living with the pain from this awful disease. Dad, the only pain I wish for you to have in your life, for the rest of your life, is me. Just like it’s been for the last 31 years.” 

David Keay said of his daughter: “Don’t doubt her fire – she will change the world one day.”

Danielle responded: “Pops the change is coming.”

For colleagues involved, the moment was a reminder of the values at the heart of nursing education and the University’s wider community.

Dr Rachel Morgan‑Guthrie, Associate Dean for Students and Education, said: “When everything feels hard, moments like this remind us why we do what we do. 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 ceremony she was due to attend, allowing her father to see her in her cap and gown and to share in a milestone that meant so much to them both.

The University of Wolverhampton extends its thoughts to Danielle and her family at this difficult time.