Baby Hope House founder finds love at 73
Just a week after retiring from the baby home in Sarnia, Sonia Lancaster, 73, married longtime volunteer John Lancaster, 82.
BABY Hope House founder Sonia Lancaster, formerly known as Sonia Swinton, has found love at the age of 73.
Sonia recently tied the knot with John Lancaster, 82, on July 18, just a week after retiring from the baby home situated at 22 Clendinning Road, Sarnia, Pinetown.
The couple said they have known each other for many years, with John having volunteered at the home from its early days, helping with maintenance and repairs.
Also read: Pinetown’s baby home continues to give hope
John said he believes it could only have been God who brought them together as husband and wife.
“It could only be God. We love one another,” he said.
The love the couple share is evident in the way they look at and care for each other.
“It has been a journey, especially with the Department of Home Affairs,” said John, whose previous wife died a few years ago.
He said that while he could have chosen to be miserable for the rest of his life, he instead chose happiness. “We love and care for one another,” he said.
Sonia cannot help but smile when speaking to or about her husband. She said married life has been exciting.
“We went to the Midlands for our honeymoon,” she said with a big smile.
Although she is now happily married, Sonia said she misses the babies and the home that has been an important part of her life. However, she and John still visit almost daily to assist wherever they can.
The couple share a passion for helping others and said they enjoy lending a helping hand whenever possible.
“It is a place very close to my heart. It gives me comfort knowing that the children are well taken care of and are loved. They are all special,” Sonia said.
Baby Hope House was co-founded by Sonia and the late Lynne Pieterse in 2007. The home provides a safe haven for vulnerable and abandoned babies, from newborns to toddlers.
Outside of their work helping others, the newlyweds enjoy spending time together. Most days include going out for breakfast and helping out at the baby home.
Sonia has two sons and four grandchildren, while John has four children and two grandchildren.
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