Home / Lifestyle / Couple Marries in Hospital Room for Dying Father
Couple Marries in Hospital Room for Dying Father
14 May
Summary
- Couple fast-tracked wedding plans for father with ALS.
- Ceremony took place in hospital room due to father's health.
- Additional celebration was livestreamed for father to watch.
Zuleika and Zachery Hammond altered their wedding plans significantly after Zachery's father was diagnosed with ALS. Initially scheduled for August 2026, the couple moved their wedding to December 21, 2025, when his health began to rapidly decline. They hoped he would attend in person, but his condition worsened.
Just ten days before the ceremony, Joseph Hammond's heart stopped, requiring hospitalization. With only days remaining, the couple decided to bring their wedding to him, holding the ceremony in his hospital room with an officiant and photographer. This allowed Joseph to witness his son and Zuleika exchange vows.
Following the intimate hospital ceremony, Zuleika and Zachery proceeded with their larger celebration. This event was livestreamed via Zoom, enabling Joseph to watch the proceedings from his hospital bed. Joseph passed away approximately two months later on February 16, at the age of 64.
Sharing their story, the couple aims to raise awareness for ALS and advises others not to get caught up in wedding details, emphasizing that family presence is paramount. They sacrificed traditional elements like a honeymoon to ensure Joseph could be part of their special day.
