8 . There are few vows(誓言)more moving than a couple’s promise to love each other for better or worse and in sickness or in health.

Steve and Charlene are looking forward to celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. Sadly, the cancer diagnosis for Charlene has made it seem unlikely. “We will have been married for 25 years in September but with the doctors’ reports, we may not make it,” Steve feared.

Charlene’s sister realized that her sister might not have another chance to celebrate this momentous anniversary, so she came up with a plan for the couple. She and Steve quickly arranged for a ceremony on Valentine’s Day. It was held in Charlene’s favorite park, a special spot for her. Charlene had two special men-her sons, in her arms as she walked to her husband, wearing her original wedding dress. In the ceremony, Steve said, “I do,” and making the “in sickness or in health” vow for a second time was a touching moment. Charlene was all smiles and shared that she was deeply touched by the loving gesture.

Now that she has had a chance to celebrate her love story, Charlene will be attending her next—and possibly final—big event, her own celebration of life in early March. As her husband explained in a web post: “Charlene has been a dedicated community volunteer and advocate for animal rights. Instead of a funeral, we are going to do something. We will have a service that she can participate in, followed by a reception where friends and family can interact with her. We want to do this while Charlene is still strong enough to do her share for charitable causes.” It sounds like no matter what her health condition is, Charlene will be surrounded by her husband’s love on the journey.