A 50th Anniversary Love Story

Love Story

Aug 19

On August 29th, 2021, Belinda and Mike will gather with their loved ones to renew their vows after 50 beautiful years of marriage.

Belinda and Mike first met in school, when they were just 14 and 16 years old. As Belinda tells it, Mike left for the summer after 9th grade as a shy, chubby kid and returned 2 months later, a tall, handsome 10th grader. They fell for each other right away and started dating. Two years later, on February 12, 1971, they were married and set off on a beautiful journey that has included two children and now four grandsons.

In 1986, Mike was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. He endured a rigorous treatment schedule, which included surgery, radiation and a feeding tube. Thankfully, his treatment worked and he has remained cancer free, despite struggling with lingering esophageal issues and partial facial paralysis. Throughout his cancer journey, Belinda remained his constant encourager and pulled him through his darkest days.

In 2012, Belinda began experiencing some concerning issues with memory and time and started having some disturbing hallucinations. As her symptoms continued to progress, they sought the help of a neurologist. Unfortunately, as is often the case in situations like this, Belinda and Mike were told that it would take time to reach a diagnosis. Not long after, Belinda was making coffee in her kitchen and lost the ability to control her body. She crashed into a wall, suffering a head injury, two broken wrists and a torn meniscus.

In 2014 Belinda was sadly diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive condition similar to Alzheimer’s disease that results in horrendous hallucinations, loss of short-term memory and a decline in movement. For the past few years, Mike has faithfully cared for Belinda as her condition as continued to advance. As he sees it, it’s his time to carry her through.

We fell in love with Mike and Belinda from the first moment we spoke to them, and we simply cannot wait to make their dream of a 50th vow renewal come true.

We found a new friend in Penny Baird of Blessed Magnolia and have been so thankful for the team that she has assembled for this very special wish.

Thank you all, in advance, we are grateful for your kindness and generosity:

Event Planner: Penny, Blessed Magnolia Event Planning

Venue: College of Central Florida, Ocala Campus

Catering: Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Floral: Blooming Events

Photography: Katelyn Virginia Photography

Videography: Greco Productions, LLC

Beauty: Tru Luck Studio Hair Salon

Baker: Cake Crazzie

Accommodations: Hilton, Ocala

Gown: David’s Bridal