Philadelphia couple battling odds gets dream wedding
PHILADELPHIA, PA (WTXF) - A local couple battling the odds had a dream come true today, a beautiful wedding while the groom is in the fight of his life.
Fox 29's Jennifer Joyce explains.
We first met 16 years ago," Karen Frager said.
And today -- they're tying the knot...
She's been really patient through all of this - she's my rock," Lonnie Brown said.
Lonnie Brown and Karen Frager of South Philadelphia have known each other for nearly two decades but only began dating a few years ago after reconnecting on Facebook.
About a year into their relationship - Brown was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer.
"It was like getting hit by a truck when they first told me," Brown said.
During a turbulent time -- Lonnie and Karen's love for one another has proven to be the one powerful constant.
"I didn't think we'd make it to this day with so much going on and me being sick - it was a blessing we made it to this day," Brown said.
They're here - surrounded by their closest family and friend - thanks to the organization Wish Upon a Wedding.
Randi Martin with Wish Upon a Wedding said, "From the venue to the DJ to the flowers the wedding planner everything was donated."
Cam'ron Frager-Banks , the bride's son, said, "I haven't seen my mom this happy in a long time.
"I can't wait to slow dance with her."
"I just want this day to be as perfect as they want it to be," Lionell Walker, the groom's son, said.
A perfect day - for a lovely pair.
"Just hearing how they met he taught her how to parallel park when they met as friends 16 years ago," Martin said.
Karen says when they got together - it was love at first sight and now with their wedding wish granted, no matter what life has in store - it's a love that will last forever.
"Just going to hold hands and walk side by side -- together," Frager said.