Me Before You: ‘My husband’s disability couldn’t stop our love’

The highly anticipated adaptation of Jojo Moyes' best-selling novel Me Before You is out in cinemas this week.

Nicola and Dean Wulfekuhle married in 2010

by Miranda Knox |
Published on

The love story focuses on the unexpected bond between carer Lou, played by Game Of Thrones' Emilia Clarke, and quadriplegic Will, played by Sam Claflin. Will is a successful man who, until an accident left him paralysed, lived an extremely active life.

Devastated by his disability and in constant pain, Will contemplates suicide, but Lou sets out to show him that life is still worth living.

Here, Nicole Wulfekuhle- whose husband Dean was left paralysed in an accident- reveals how their lives couldn't be more fulfilling.

Nicola and Dean Wulfekuhle married in 2010
Nicola and Dean Wulfekuhle married in 2010 ©Wales News

When Nicole Wulfekuhle, 46, first met life coach Dean, 44, online, she was shocked when he revealed that a spinal injury caused by a car accident meant he was paralysed from the chest down.

Despite all the challenges he faced, Dean refused to give up and the couple fell in love.

Holistic therapist Nicole, from Newport, South Wales, who lives with Dean and her three daughters from a previous relationship, says: "Dean's determination is inspirational. There are days when he gets frustrated, but he's always remained positive.

"Everyone is different- I wouldn't judge someone else for the choices they make in a similar situation. I had a friend with a spinal injury who chose to end their life in 2010- it's a deeply personal decision.

"Dealing with severe disability isn't easy. It impacts many areas of our lives but we work around it- our love is stronger than ever."

Dean says: "I'd always lead a very active life working on a farm, so after the accident when I was just 21- which left me with very limited movement in my arms- I didn't know what I'd do with my life.

"I worried I wouldn't find someone who could handle my disabilities, but I refused to give up. With Nicole's support I've done things I didn't think I ever would- like fishing- and I have the perfect family."

To read the full story, buy Closer magazine out now.

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