A Pittsburgh Love Story

Love Story

Jul 8

On July 11, 2019, William and Shelley will gather among family and friends to renew the vows that they first spoke to each other 22 years ago. For this lovely couple, the road back to the altar has been a long and winding one.

William and Shelley first in 1994. As the story goes, William was on a date with one of Shelley’s co-workers and Shelley decided to move in and take over the date. They hit it off immediately and began seeing each other. Not sooner after, they were surprised to find out that they were expecting their first child. 10 months after their baby was born, they were blessed with another child.

They were married in 1997 and spent the next 10 years trying to get to know one another, all while raising two small children. The stress of life often weighed on the couple and they battled many years of hardship. Finally, they were able to find healing and peace and fell more in love with each other than ever.

It was about this time that William began to experience some unexplained health problems. Despite numerous doctor visits, they were never able to get any good answers. On April 11th of last year, William had a stroke and collapsed at the grocery store. He spent the next 77 days in the hospital with a slew of harrowing complications including having a heart valve replaced, being intubated for months and spending 34 days in a coma. On more than one occasion, he was clinging to life and Shelley was certain she was going to lose him.

After many months spent searching for answers, William was ultimately diagnosed with interstitial lung disease with pulmonary fibrosis. His conditioned as progressed considerably and his only hope is a double lung transplant, which as of now, he has not been able to qualify for.

We were initially drawn to this this couple because of their incredible story. After meeting them, and getting to know their hearts and their love for one other, we were sold. We simply cannot wait to throw them the vow renewal they have been looking forward to for many years.

As with all of our wishes, we’re blown away by the generous and oh-so-talented crew that has signed up to help us. Thanks a million to this fine group:

Wish Granters:

Wedding Planner: Wanderlust Weddings and Events

Venue/Catering: Bella Sera Event Villa and Catering

Photographer: Lavender Leigh Photography

Videographer: Post Script Films

Music: Jason Kendall Productions

Florist: Community Flower Shop

Baker: Bella Christie’s and Lil Z’s Sweet Boutique

Linens : All Occasions Party Rental

Hair: Ritual Hair Company

Make-up: B Morgan Makeup

Stationery: Angela Pro Design