Couple Battling Same Fatal Disease Get a Beautiful Wedding – She Holds His Hand in His Final Days

Two people who faced extreme health conditions had little hope for the future. However, after their paths crossed, something miraculous happened—and it demonstrated the power of love in all circumstances.

Receiving a devastating health diagnosis is never easy. Many people struggle to stay positive, and their outlook on the world changes forever.

But amid the pain and anxiety, hope and abundant joy are still possible. A couple from Cloverdale, Indiana, proved this—their tear-jerking story will touch your heart.

A DEVASTATING DIAGNOSIS

Sara Smouther and Matt Weeks didn't meet under the best circumstances. They had lived tough lives and battled a terminal neurological illness, Huntington's disease.

Smouther lost her drive and reason for existence, but everything changed when she arrived at Summerfield Health Care Center in 2021.

Smouther and Matt had family members who suffered from the same sickness. They were handed the life-changing diagnosis in their thirties, and it turned their worlds upside down.

SHE DIDN'T WANT CHILDREN

Smouther previously worked as a publishing executive for Zaner-Bloser and boasted two master's degrees in education and literacy. However, the life she imagined for herself was not meant to be.

Her first marriage ended because she didn't want to have kids. Her mom, Terri Catino, believed Smouther's diagnosis was to blame and changed all the plans she had for herself. She stated:

"I think secretly, she didn't want to have a child, knowing she was going to die and not be there for that child."

LIFE BEFORE HE BECAME ILL

Matt also had an exciting and creative day job before his health started affecting him. He worked as a well-known sound engineer and completed projects for stars like Collin Raye and Wynonna Judd. His brother Mark Weeks said:

"He had always been funny, quick-witted. But also, I would say a thinker in the sense that he could surprise you sometimes with his thoughts on life, politics, philosophical issues."

THE MOMENT EVERYTHING CHANGED

Smouther lost her drive and reason for existence, but everything changed when she arrived at Summerfield Health Care Center in 2021. Her path crossed with someone special, and they clicked immediately.

She was drawn to Matt, who had been in the facility since 2020. She shared:

"I thought he was cute. The next thing I know, we talked for a long time about our careers and family."

"I introduced myself. I thought he was cool, and he made me happy," the loved-up resident added.

THEY FELL IN LOVE

The Summerfield care facility had some rules about relationships between residents. The first stage allowed for kissing and holding hands, followed by a time of dating. Smouther and Matt enjoyed this process and became "inseparable."

Matt proposed to the love of his life at their prom dance, and six months later, they said, "I do." Matt never dreamed about getting married, so having the opportunity to do so was significant.

THE COUPLE'S SPECIAL DAY

The couple had fun planning their intimate wedding, and Smouther designed a custom wedding band for her husband. Inscribed on the inside of the sentimental piece were the words, "You are my world."

The words were full of meaning, and Smouther added that Matt gave her life a new purpose. She said, "It's a comfort knowing I have someone."

At their wedding, they danced to Ed Sheeran's "Thinking Out Loud," and there wasn't a dry eye in the room. Matt echoed Smouther's loving sentiments, and via a facility administrator, Tasheena Duncan, he expressed:

"He's saying that he loves her. He's not lonely anymore, and he knows he is going to be with her forever in heaven."

IT WAS A MIRACLE

Matt's brother officiated the wedding, and he called it a "truly wonderful moment" and a "truly miraculous day." He was thrilled for his sibling and adored Smouther. She brought him out of his shell and gave him a second chance at life. Mark said:

"Matt had become rather secluded. He had lost touch with most of his friends. I think he had given up hope. To marry Sara is the best thing for him. She’s wonderful, outgoing, and feisty. She is just charming."

LOVE AND FRIENDSHIPS ARE STILL POSSIBLE

Smouther's sister Lindsay Williams noticed the joy Matt brought into their lives. Williams added that it was important for her sister to have someone who understood her struggles.

The couple always made the most of every day together and were grateful to have found love. Dr. Christopher James, Smouther's neurologist, shared:

"They have such a special connection. It's a wonderful reminder that even though this disease, it can be so devastating, people can still experience love and friendship. It's given them a reason to keep living."

Matt passed away in 2022, and his beloved wife was next to him. She held his hand, and he died peacefully. Smouther's mother noted: "God called him home."

While the wife was heartbroken, she was immensely thankful for the memories they made. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her.

Click here for another story about love and loss. One couple promised, "till death do we part," and they meant it. The duo had been married for over six decades and passed away holding hands.