Elderly Couple Married for 73 Years Finally Reunites after Being Separated by COVID Pandemic

The global pandemic forced an elderly couple to live apart for close to a year. They were devastated and missed each other dearly. Finally, in May 2021, they were reunited in an emotional encounter.

Margaret Louise Baldwin Bigler, 97, and Joseph Andrew Bigler, 96, spent 73 years as a married couple when they were separated out of necessity. Margaret was placed in the long-term Harmar Village Care Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

Her husband remained at home and was unable to visit because of the coronavirus pandemic. Weeks turned into months, and the couple longed to see each other.

WIFE COULD NOT BELIEVE IT

When Joseph was admitted to a care home, he was finally taken to see his wife. Margaret was overcome with emotion when she saw her "Joe" after all the time that had passed.

All she managed to say was, "Oh my God!" The pair hugged each other from their respective wheelchairs. The emotional wife could not believe her eyes.

GRATEFUL FOR THE REUNION

The genuine joy of being with her partner again was easy to see. Margaret expressed: "It had been hard not seeing Joe, and very sad." Their reunion was one of the best days of her life, and she was grateful to the people who made it possible.

Joseph added that it was "hell" having his beloved wife torn away from him. However, he understood why it was necessary. An employee at the care facility shared that the reunion made many staff members cry.

THE VIDEO WENT VIRAL

Holly Bills said: "Staff was very excited to see them together again. It was a happy day for all." The video went viral on Facebook, with netizens sharing their teary-eyed responses.

One user wrote:

"Such a joyful reunion. So sad that so many people have been separated during Covid-19. My heart goes out especially to the elderly during this time."

THE ONLINE REACTION

Another person stated: "So beautiful yet so so sad." Some commenters were also upset that the couple was separated for such a lengthy period.

One user shared:

"How dare they separate this couple during this ugly pandemic. They needed each other throughout this time. At almost 100 yrs old, they deserve the respect and dignity to be with each other ..."

SEEING MORE OF EACH OTHER

Others noted the beauty of their love. Many expressed that it made them cry. A netizen said: "I don't know if I'm crying because there were separated or because they're back together, but I'm happy for them."

The couple is thrilled that they will see more of each other again. Joseph is a resident at a facility close by, and this allows for more visits. Their reunion story showcased that distance and time apart can't come between real love.