Young soulmates say ‘I do’ at Ryan House

azbigmedia.com
August 7, 2023
by Lin Sue Flood

Couples often spend months, if not years, planning their nuptials. But there was no such luxury for Jovani Colmenero and Kaylie Garcia. Time is especially precious because the groom is a hospice patient. 

When the 20-year-old was admitted to Ryan House recently, he and Kaylie envisioned a small gathering to celebrate their unconditional love. In just a few days, Hospice of the Valley’s pediatric inpatient unit and other care team members rallied to pull off the wedding of their dreams.

The agency’s Helping Hand Fund covered a catered dinner from Ajo Al’s. Flowers, dessert, wedding bands, a bridal gown and tuxedo shirt were all donated. Hair and makeup was provided. Hospice of the Valley videographer Delbert Vega took stunning photos and chaplain Frank Macias conducted the ceremony in Spanish before two dozen family members and friends. Ryan House’s sanctuary was turned into a cozy chapel with lots of pink — the bride’s favorite color.

“They got us a priest, a gown, shoes, his clothes, décor… everything! When I arrived, everything looked beautiful! I wasn’t expecting this — it exceeded all my expectations,” Kaylie said.  

“I feel like the happiest man on Earth,” Jovani said. “When I look at her, I look at the love of my life.”

Jovani is Kaylie’s first boyfriend. They met in 2022 at a party, seven months before he became ill. 

“I admire how strong he is. He taught me things that I would never think I’d learn,” said Kaylie, also 20. “When I see him, I feel really lucky. Jovani knows how to make a difficult moment a happy moment. In him, I see happiness and love, and that’s what I need. This is what true love is — being together during the happy times and the hard times. He is my angel.” 

“And vice versa,” Jovani added. “How many people would stand by someone in my situation?”

Jovani has been battling bone cancer since the age of 16. As the disease progressed, Hospice of the Valley provided compassionate comfort care in his home. Just recently, he moved to Ryan House, where he receives round-the-clock clinical support.

“I told Jovani, ‘This home could be your home for as long as you need us, so that your family can be your family, your girlfriend can be your girlfriend, and we can take care of your medical and nursing needs. And every night, we’re going to provide a hot meal and you can invite your friends and your family,’ ” Ryan House team leader Karena Fisher said.

After the ceremony, Jovani’s dad, German, struggled to convey his appreciation. “I don’t have words for this. I’m very grateful to the nurses, the doctors, the entire staff.” 

“Every single person in here projects confidence, kindness and, above all, love,” said Kaylie’s mom, Lorena.

Karena and her team were humbled to grant such a meaningful wish. “Jovani is going to have this beautiful memory. That’s what we wanted to give him.”