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M’sian Badminton Player With Covid-19 Married In UK Hospital Just Before He Died

M’sian Badminton Player With Covid-19 Married In UK Hospital Just Before He Died

Benny Khaw, once represented Malaysia in the Thomas Cup, died 9 days after marrying his partner of 25 years.

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In a touching yet heartbreaking moment, former Malaysian badminton player Benny Khaw married his partner of 25 years at the Acute Assessment Unit at Kingston Hospital, UK just before he died of Covid-19.

According to Kingston Hospital, Benny was unexpectedly rushed to the hospital on 2nd January with Covid-19. His condition subsequently deteriorated and he breathed his last on 17th January, 9 days after marrying his long-time partner Julia Cox.

Their wedding was held at the same hospital he was warded in, which was transformed into a wedding venue by the staff who spent time decorating Benny’s bedside with beautiful lights and decorations. The hospital also funded a wedding cake for the couple.

In a bittersweet ceremony, the couple were married by Reverend Susan van Beveren, with Julia’s two daughters Eleanor Cox and Emma Perham, as witnesses.

Long time love

Benny Khaw and Julia Cox.
(Image via New Straits Times)

Benny and Julia met and fell in love playing badminton 25 years ago when she brought her daughters for lessons at the Wimbleton Club.

According to New Straits Times, Benny, or Khaw Beng Eam, once represented Malaysia in the Thomas Cup. The Penangite then came to England in 1962 to study at the University of London.

He worked with the Customs department and still continued with his love for badminton as a coach, even coaching Julia’s daughter Eleanor since she was 9 years old. Eleanor later became a national badminton player for England.

Benny has been in our lives for many years and I consider him to be my dad. It was so special to be able to see mum and Benny get married – it was a wonderful celebration of the times they have shared. We have all been blown away by the kindness shown by the staff at Kingston Hospital. In the midst of a pandemic, staff pulled out all the stops to enable this to happen. They have been so incredibly kind to our family and really showed a level of care and compassion that is above and beyond what we expected.

Eleanor Cox via Kingston Hospital

Benny passed away at the age of 85. The couple have three daughters and four grandchildren between them and for both of them, this was their second marriage.


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