An Edmonton couple celebrated their wedding day in front of family and friends over the weekend, after receiving a devastating cancer diagnosis.
Stasha Vollman and Jason Storey fell in love while working together seven years ago. They blended their families and started their life together, but didn’t have the money to officially tie the knot.
“We’ve already felt like family for a long time,” Jason told Global News.
Then, a year ago, Stasha found out she had terminal cancer. It was affecting her vision, and in her lungs, bones, liver and brain.
“This is one of the strongest women I’ve met in my life,” Jason said.
“If someone’s going to fight it and stick around as long as she can… it’s her.”
In February, without time to save, Jason approached a jewelry store at Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre in southeast Edmonton to discuss a payment plan to buy Stasha’s dream ring.
After hearing their story, the owner of Gold Star Jewellers gifted them a 1.5-carat diamond ring instead.
“We certainly wouldn’t have been able to afford to do a wedding on such short notice,” Stasha said.
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A few months ago, Global News covered the couple’s story for Valentine’s Day — which caught the attention of a caterer and wedding planner.
“Each offered their services and kind of started a snowballing effect,” Jason said.
From food and music, to invitations and limo services, the couple said they received offers from several businesses: “The list goes on and on.”
READ MORE: Edmonton woman battling cancer while striving to become nurse
Angels Anonymous — an organization that grants wishes to terminally ill adults — also helped cover costs.
“They stepped in with a lot of costs to help us get the wedding of our dreams instead of getting married on the steps of city hall,” Jason said, as Stasha laughed beside him.
The dream day came together this past Saturday, when the two were married at St. Herman’s Orthodox Church in west Edmonton.
“There’s just been so many people in the community that have just come together and wanted to help be a part of our special day and made it really special for everyone,” Stasha said after they tied the knot.
“To everyone, I would like to say thank you,” Jason added.
It was a fairy tale day for the couple, and they’re excited for their happily ever after.
“Being married is awesome already,” Stasha said.
Since our story originally aired in February, Stasha has been going through rigorous chemotherapy treatments.
“It’s been pretty aggressive and not easy at times,” she said.
“The treatments are working so we’ve go our fingers crossed. It’s going to be a hard battle but hopefully I’ll have a few more years with the kids before it’s all done.”
Now that the wedding is over, the couple plans to rest and relax and make as many memories with their kids as they can.
“We’re going to enjoy every minute we have with her.”
A GoFundMe has been launched to help pay for some of the uncovered costs of medical treatments and to help the family spend time together.
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