A courageous young girl was walked down the aisle by her father to marry her school sweetheart, just days before she passed away.
Ask any parent, and they’ll likely say they’d do anything for their child. Becoming a parent transforms our lives in profound ways. From that moment on, we commit to care for, cherish, and worry about our children for the rest of our lives here on Earth.
Sadly, there are some things even parents can’t prevent. Every year, too many children face circumstances and illnesses beyond anyone’s control. Both accidents and disease are unfortunate parts of life, just as much as joy and celebration.
The moment Alina and Aaron Edwards learned their nine-year-old daughter, Emma, had acute lymphoblastic leukemia, their world changed forever. Despite months of hope, doctors eventually told them there was nothing more they could do to save Emma, leaving them heartbroken and desperate.
Determined to make the most of the time they had left, Emma’s parents committed to fulfilling their daughter’s wishes. While many kids in her situation might dream of meeting a famous hero or visiting Disneyland, Emma had different plans.
Emma’s request? To marry DJ, her ten-year-old boyfriend. After Sunday, I’ll have more to say and many people to thank, but right now, my brain just isn’t functioning properly.
Emma’s community rallied around her, forming “Emma’s Army,” a group dedicated to making her dreams come true. With help from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, her family raised the funds needed to grant her wish. “Most kids want to visit Disneyland, but Emma wanted to get married, be a wife, and have three kids,” her mother Alina shared.
Reports say Emma and DJ had previously tried to marry. When they were eight, they picked out bridesmaids and groomsmen, but their teacher refused to let the wedding take place, despite their efforts.
This time, however, the wedding was different. Supported by their parents and community, they quickly organized everything, and in two days, the event came together beautifully. “Everything was donated in the end,” Alina revealed.
On the big day, Emma arrived in a wheelchair, dressed in elegant purple. With a smile, she was escorted down the aisle by her father. After exchanging vows and rings, DJ kissed his bride, completing the ceremony.
Afterward, Emma returned to her bed to rest, but it was clear how happy she was to have lived out her dream. A few weeks later, on July 11, 2023, Emma passed away.
Emma’s obituary shared: “On July 11, 2023, Emma Brooks Edwards passed away, surrounded by her loved ones. Emma, just ten years old, battled leukemia for sixteen months, a fight she bravely took on.”
Born on April 22, 2013, Emma was the youngest in her family and had a vibrant personality. She loved DIY crafts, her family, Jesus, and her new “husband,” DJ. To those who knew her, Emma was an inspiration of strength and love.
Rest in peace, Emma. Taken too soon, this beautiful young soul will always be remembered. We extend our prayers to all families affected by cancer.
