The Heart Bracelet

The Heart Bracelet forms a part of our trio set within our heartfelt collection, ‘A Moment in Time’, created in memory of my incredible Grandparents and their everlasting love.

Starting out as teenage pen pals throughout WWII, to then becoming husband and wife, having a family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren. They continued to never be without each other for another 76 years. They literally saw it all! The highs, the lows and everything in between. They lived a happy full life, together. Their love is endless. It is timeless. Joan and John Dudgeon showed us all that no matter what, they always chose each other.

Do you believe in fate?

I’d like to tell you one of my Grandads favourite true stories…

In late 1944, at just 18 years old, John Henry Dudgeon left his family to join the Royal Navy and set sail into World War II. On his first day on the ship, John was sat up on his wooden locker and (originally being born in Jarrow, his friendly Geordie ways never left him) he got chatting to a chap called Arthur Grantham. Arthur asked John if he would like to perhaps write to his younger sister Joan Grantham, whilst away at sea. John replied “goon then, I’d quite like a pen pal!”

For a whole year at every opportunity, John and Joan wrote letters to each other, sent photos, and got to know one another. Once the war had ended, John returned to Hull where himself and Joan could properly start their life together. They shared many adventures, they chatted to everyone that they met, and they enjoyed life.

In July 2021, they celebrated 72 years of marriage, and 77 years of being together. This would be their final year together on this earth. For the following 4 years, Joan still talked fondly of their love for one another, and she still spoke to John’s photo every single day. In 2025, Joan joined John.

Their love was completely unconditional. 
was it their destiny to share a lifetime together? One thing that I do know, is that love can play a huge, comforting part in your life, if you let it in.

This true story is now one of my favourite stories to retell too. Thank you Nan and Grandad, for everything.

‘A Moment in Time’ The Heartfelt Collection by HMJ

We’ve created just two of this stunning piece, so you’ll have to be quick if you want to make it yours! Presented in our branded quality keepsake gift box.

(free postage on all orders over £40)

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