November 1, 2013

Wish Upon A Wedding: Jo-Ann and John

When 24 carrots was asked to be a part of this wish grant, the answer was a resounding, “of course!” We are always endlessly proud to stand beside Wish Upon A Wedding, a non-profit organization that bestows weddings and vow renewals to couples facing terminal illness or life altering circumstances. What we didn’t realize, is how much it would, in turn, affect our hearts in the process. Jo-Ann’s journey (from WUW):

Jo-ann and John met 19 years ago through fate. She was 21 years old and he was 19. After dancing one night, he leaned over to kiss her and they have not been apart since.

Jo-ann was recently diagnosed with stage IV bilateral breast cancer which has metastasize to her lungs and possibly liver (after being misdiagnosed last year in April 2012). She is currently undergoing Neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Jo-ann foresees the future being challenging with her recent diagnosis not only for her best friend (her husband), but also for their two daughters (Ava 8 & Layla 12). John and Jo-ann never had a wedding since they chose to be married at the courthouse and purchased their first home instead spending money on a wedding. In Jo-ann’s words, “It would be such a miracle if we could experience such a positive occasion during this very difficult time.”

Upon reading their story, we were even more eager to pour our love onto Jo-Ann and John for their vow renewal. The day was emotional even for those of us who had met the couple briefly, and the atmosphere was one filled with complete adoration for them both.

We were so honored to serve them as they reestablished their promises to continue to love and cherish each other.

The generosity of all the vendors that the WUW team pulled together was nothing short of amazing. It was so encouraging to see the wedding industry’s best foot forward, as they all gave of their services and talents, freely, and without condition.

We may have had the privilege of loving on Jo-Ann and John, but they truly touched our hearts. Of course, we wish them the very best in their continued journey of love and life together.