By BRIDGET SCOTT
WHILE for many, the preparation for a sister’s wedding can be somewhat stressful, for one Hampton Park resident it’s been quite a different story.
On Tuesday 17 September, Janis Richardson-Byrnes jetted off the UK for her sister’s wedding, but first of all, they have to meet one another.
Forty-six years ago Ms Richardson-Byrnes, one of 13 children, emigrated from the UK with her aunt and uncle, and has not seen her siblings since.
Since coming to Australia at the age of 14, her parents had another child which she has never had the chance to meet.
Ms Richardson-Byrnes explained that living in such a big family was no easy task, so she moved down the road to live with her extended family.
The former UK resident took off with her husband on Tuesday night, shortly after talking to the News about her tale.
The 60-year-old said the passing of her father at the age of 61 from a heart attack prompted the visit.
With an original plan to go earlier in the year, Ms Richardson-Byrnes’s sister Jane, asked that she delay the visit and make it in time for her wedding.
With a substantial build up to the trip, the mother of four is excited about the reunion, which will also be covered by the local newspaper in Salford, Manchester.
There won’t be much room to move as 13 siblings reunite and Ms Richardson-Byrnes is confident they will remain in touch after she returns from her three-week trip.
“We’ve spent the whole year talking about it, but I am excited now,” she said.
“I’ve been like the orphan over here.”
Sister of Ms Richardson-Byrnes, Tracey Howell, said everyone is eagerly anticipating their sister’s arrival.
“All involved are very excited,” she said.
“My youngest sister, Jane, has never met Janis in person.”
