Ask any parent and they’ll likely tell you there’s nothing they wouldn’t do for their child.
Becoming a mother or father changes life in ways that are hard to explain. From that day on, parents dedicate themselves to loving, caring for, and worrying about their child for the rest of their lives.
Sadly, though, there are some things even parents can’t prevent. Accidents and illness are part of life, and too many children suffer from things they can’t control.
Alina and Aaron Edwards’ lives were turned upside down when they learned that their 9-year-old daughter, Emma, had acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Heartbroken, they held onto hope that Emma could fight the cancer. But after a few months, doctors delivered the devastating news that there was nothing more they could do to save her.
Determined to make the most of the time they had left, Emma’s parents decided to fulfill her wishes.
Many children in such situations might want to meet a celebrity, visit Disneyland, or walk out onto a sports field with their favorite player.
But Emma’s wish was different. She wanted to marry her 10-year-old boyfriend, DJ.
Before long, Emma’s wish gained a lot of attention from her local community. Volunteers and supporters came together under the name “Emma’s Army,” all working towards making the little girl’s dream come true before her time ran out.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation eventually stepped in to help Emma’s family raise funds. Emma’s mom, Alina, explained, “Most kids want to go to Disneyland, but Emma wanted to get married, be a wife, and have three kids.”
Reports say this wasn’t the first time Emma and DJ tried to marry each other. At the age of eight, the two had attempted to have a wedding at school. They even picked out bridesmaids and groomsmen from their classmates. However, their teacher didn’t allow the “wedding,” no matter how unofficial it was.
This time, though, the wedding had the full support of their parents and the help of countless kind-hearted people who were determined to make Emma’s wish come true.
“We put it all together in less than two days, and everything was donated. It was so precious, and it came together perfectly,” Alina shared.
When the big day arrived, the special moment was captured on video, including interviews with some of the guests. The young groom, DJ, shared his feelings, saying, “I thought she was the most beautiful person I ever saw. Ever since, I loved her.”
Emma’s mom, Alina, also had heartfelt words for DJ, expressing her gratitude for her daughter’s caring friend. In an emotional Facebook post, she wrote:
“DJ has been Emma’s ‘Boo bear’ since 3rd grade, and seeing these two together will melt your heart. DJ protects her, helps her, and makes her heart soar. She loves him, and I know he loves her too! He’s stood by her side through all the ups and downs and kept her smiling. DJ will forever be family.”
On June 29, Emma’s dream wedding became a reality. Arriving in a wheelchair, pushed by her loving parents, Emma wore a stunning purple dress and smiled brightly as her father escorted her down the aisle.
Emma and DJ exchanged rings and vows, with DJ sealing the ceremony with a sweet kiss. After the wedding, Emma returned to rest in bed, but her joy from the day was clear to everyone who saw her.
Sadly, just a few weeks later, on July 11, 2023, Emma passed away after bravely battling leukemia.
Her obituary read: “Emma Brooks Edwards entered heaven and into the loving arms of her Great-grandma Frannie Annie on July 11, 2023, surrounded by those who love her most. Emma was 10 years old and battled leukemia for 16 months. Our little unicorn, Emma, was born on April 22, 2013, and completed the Edwards family. She loved arts and crafts, practical jokes, her family, friends, Jesus, and her newlywed ‘husband,’ DJ. Emma was a light to all who knew her and an inspiration to everyone she met. She was the best daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, aunt, ‘wife,’ and friend. Her legacy is one of strength, humor, and endless love for all.”
Rest in peace, Emma, a beautiful soul taken far too soon.
Unleash Your Inner Child at the Theme Park!
Although theme parks are typically thought of as places for kids, adults may also have a great time and make priceless memories there. Allow me to tell you a touching tale about a father and daughter who had a very unique experience with Disney World’s magic.
While Dan and his daughter Lyla, six, were strolling through the park, they happened upon a piano and a gifted musician. Lyla declared with pride that her father could also play the instrument as they listened to the music. They had no idea that this innocuous comment would set off an incredible performance.
Music teacher Justin acknowledged that while singing was not his strongest instrument, playing the piano was. Motivated by Lyla and the pianist, Justin assumed the spotlight and initiated an unplanned performance. He held the attention of everyone in the vicinity with the melancholic chords of “Ave Maria.” People were so drawn to his voice that they stopped in their tracks. Flashing cameras recorded this amazing moment. Justin would never forget that day.
Lyla was ecstatic beyond measure. “He sang it out loud and almost everyone took a video of him,” she proudly told local media. Lauren, Justin’s wife, was also astounded by the compelling production her husband created. The audience erupted in deafening ovation at the grand finale, expressing gratitude for this surprise performance.
Justin had no idea that this spontaneous act would make him a household name on the internet. His enthralling performance was captured on camera, which went viral and received thousands of views and favorable comments from people all around the world. Though Justin never anticipated becoming famous, he loved being well-known.
As he considered his newfound fame, Justin modestly told a local newspaper, “It’s beyond what I ever could have dreamed.” For grownups like Justin, Disney World—which is renowned for its enchanted experiences—proved to be equally captivating.
Thus, don’t be afraid to embrace the unexpected and let your inner child go the next time you visit a theme park. One never knows, perhaps you’ll make lifelong memories. Talk about this endearing tale with your loved ones. Love and tranquility are, after all, meant to be shared.
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