Bride with Rare Illness Celebrates ‘Unforgettable’ Wedding Thanks to $50K in Community Donations (Exclusive)
By Ashlyn Robinette | PEOPLE | April 8, 2025
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(641x461:643x463):format(webp)/Community-Gifts-Terminally-Ill-Woman-Wedding-040825-0dedbc4edd294849a2a408004ba33121.jpg)
Kristina Hamilton, who battles a rare autoimmune disease called Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma, tied the knot with her partner, Chris Swanson, in an emotional and unforgettable ceremony held on April 6 at Trinity Oaks of Matthew’s Hope in Cocoa, Florida.
Despite the challenges of her condition—which causes the body to produce excessively thick tissue and has led to major health complications—Hamilton celebrated a day full of love, joy, and hope. The wedding was made possible through the nonprofit organization Wish Upon a Wedding and the generous contributions of over $50,000 in services from local vendors.
“This day was more than we ever dreamed,” the couple told PEOPLE. “Thanks to Wish Upon a Wedding, we were gifted a moment we’ll cherish forever. Their generosity gave us more than a wedding — they gave us hope, happiness, and love in the face of hardship.”
Kristina, 42, and Chris, 43, first connected on a dating app in 2023. Despite the uncertainties of her illness, Kristina decided to apply to Wish Upon a Wedding. To her surprise, she was selected.
The wedding was planned by Courtney Woolbright of I Do for You Wedding & Event Planning, who coordinated dozens of vendors to contribute their talents and services, from floral arrangements to catering. According to Florida Today, the event was valued at over $50,000.
Hamilton looked radiant in a strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline, holding a bouquet of blue and white roses and orchids by Crown of Flowers LLC. Her groom wore a sharp blue suit from Aurora Bridal, perfectly complementing the wedding’s elegant color palette.
“Chris has been my rock,” Hamilton shared. “His support gives me strength every day.”
The celebration continued with food by East Coast Shuckers during cocktail hour, followed by a joyful reception. Nearly 50 guests danced to music by DJ Chemics, took photos in a booth by 1,000 Words, and enjoyed a full dinner from Renaissance Catering. Dessert featured a cake by Cynful Snacks & Cakes and drinks from De-Booze Mobile Bartending and Pop & Pour.
Decor was provided by Chairs for Affairs and Mimosas & Moonshine Rentals, who created a soft, romantic atmosphere with white and blue linens and charming table settings. The couple made their grand exit in a limo provided by Hot Rayz Limousines.
Kristina and Chris, who are blending their families — her three children and his four — are now focusing on what matters most: love, family, and resilience.
“As we begin our life together, our goal is not only to manage my health, but also to raise awareness, share our story, and hopefully one day help find a cure,” Hamilton said.
“Because of Wish Upon a Wedding, we’ve started this new chapter filled with love and hope.”
Let me know if you’d like this rewritten in a more emotional, journalistic, or formal style!