Vow ideas for terminally ill people + advice for hospital weddings

It's very hard to find vow renewal scripts for terminally ill people. We've been through so much and the fight has just began AGAIN and this time is the last. But we are strong and happy and alive. We need these. -Belva

Belva, thank you so much for writing. We are so sorry that you are going through such a harrowing experience, but we know that sadly, you're not the first (nor will you be the last) person planning a vow renewal or wedding with a partner who has a terminal diagnosis. We've featured several hospital weddings over the years, so we know how heartbreakingly beautiful these vow exchanges can be.

This in mind, we're offering you a few vow renewal scripts and ideas for how to have a wedding that feels right for you and your partner, regardless of one of you being terminally ill. Sending so much love to you and your beloved.

A few terminally ill wedding ideas and guidance

Having a wedding when one-half of the couple is terminally ill can be a difficult and emotional situation, to say the least. There are some things that can be done to make the event meaningful and special for everyone involved. Here are some steps that could be taken:

1. Prioritize the couple's wishes: It's important to involve the couple in the planning process and prioritize their wishes for the wedding. This could include choosing a meaningful location, inviting specific guests, or including certain traditions or rituals.
2. Consider the couple's health needs: Depending on the couple's health needs, adjustments may need to be made to the wedding plans. For example, the wedding may need to be held at a location that is easily accessible, or the ceremony may need to be shorter in duration.
3. Plan for emotional support: It's important to plan for emotional support for the couple and their loved ones. This could include having a therapist or counselor available, or simply making sure that there are close friends or family members available to provide comfort and support.
4. Capture memories: Consider hiring a professional photographer or videographer to capture the special moments of the wedding. This can be a way to create lasting memories, during a time when they may be fleeting.
5. Focus on what matters most: Remember that the most important thing is to celebrate the love and commitment between the couple. Even if the wedding is not perfect or does not go exactly as planned, what matters most is the love and connection between the couple and their loved ones.

Wedding officiant script for a wedding where half the couple is terminally ill

Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of [Partner 1] and [Partner 2]. This day marks a milestone in their journey together, one that has been marked by love, perseverance, and unwavering commitment.

As many of you know, [Partner 2] is facing a significant illness, and though their time together may be limited, their love knows no bounds. Today, they have chosen to join together in [marriage or vow renewal], to affirm their love for each other and to cherish every moment they have together. So let us celebrate this beautiful union, and offer our love and support to this incredible couple.

Vow renewal script for a wedding with a terminally ill partner

For the partner who is not ill:

I, [Name], stand here today in awe of our love and commitment to one another. Our journey has been filled with highs and lows, but our love has stood the test of time. Though we face the difficult reality of our time together being limited, I vow to cherish every moment, every laugh, every tear, and every memory we have left to create.

I will be your strength and support through every trial, and I will hold you close and love you unconditionally. I am forever grateful for the life we have built together, and I promise to make the most of every day we have left.

For the partner who is ill:

I, [Name], am honored to stand before you today and declare my love and devotion to you once again. Though our time together may be short, my love for you knows no bounds. You are my heart and soul, and I am forever grateful for the joy and happiness you have brought to my life.

I vow to cherish every moment we have left together, to create new memories, and to hold your hand through every challenge. I will be your strength and support, your comfort and your joy, and I will love you with all my heart until the very end. Thank you for choosing me to be your partner in life, and for the gift of your love.

Vow examples for folks who may be dealing with a terminal illness, who want folks to smile through their tears

For the partner who is not ill:

My dearest [Partner's Name], it seems like only yesterday we stood before each other and pledged our love and commitment. And now, as we stand here again, I am filled with gratitude for every moment we have had together. While we cannot control the amount of time we have left, I vow to cherish every moment and make you laugh as much as possible. I will be your partner in crime, your confidant, and your support system through every step of this journey.

I promise to keep your favorite snacks stocked, your favorite shows queued up, and to always be your plus one at every last event, even if it's virtual. And most of all, I promise to love you with all my heart until the very end, and beyond.

For the partner who is ill:

My love, my [Partner's Name], you know I could never be more in awe of the love, strength, and grace that you have shown throughout this difficult journey. Today, I renew my commitment to you and to our love. I vow to cherish every moment we have left together, to make you smile, and to be the wind beneath your wings the best that possibly can.

I will hold your hand when I can, and make goofy faces at you when I cannot. I will be your copilot until the very end, and beyond. So today, I [stand / sit / lie] before you, my partner in crime, my rock, and my everything, and I promise to love you with all my heart.

Wedding vow examples for a hospital wedding with a terminally ill partner

For the partner who is not ill:

My dearest [Partner's Name], today, as I [stand / sit / lie] before you in this hospital room, my love for you burns brighter than ever before. I am in awe of your strength and courage, and I vow to be your rock through every challenge that lies ahead.

I promise to hold your hand through every pain, to be your support system, and to love you with all my heart. Even in the face of uncertainty, I am certain of one thing: that I will love you until the end of time, and beyond.

For the partner who is ill:

My love, my [Partner's Name], as I [stand / sit / lie] here today, I am filled with gratitude for every moment we have shared together. Though our journey may be shorter than we imagined, my love for you is infinite.

I vow to cherish every moment we have left together, to hold your hand for as long as I can, and to be as present with you as possible through all the trials we may face. I am forever grateful for the gift of your love, and I promise to love you with all my heart until the very end.

Finally, let's talk about having a wedding in a hospital

Planning a wedding in a hospital can be challenging, but here are some creative ideas that can make the day special:

1. Bring the outside in: Depending on the hospital's policies, you may be able to bring in some natural elements to make the space feel more welcoming. Consider incorporating potted plants, flowers, or other natural décor to help create a more intimate and romantic atmosphere.
2. Personalize the space: Make the hospital room feel more like a wedding venue by adding some personalized touches. This could include hanging photographs, displaying a wedding arch, or decorating the room with the couple's favorite colors or themes.
3. Create a special menu: Work with the hospital's food service team to create a special wedding menu that incorporates the couple's favorite foods and drinks. You can even work with a local bakery to create a customized wedding cake.
4. Add music: If it's ok with the hospital, bring in a Bluetooth speaker with a custom playlist, or consider even hiring a single musician to come play music. A flautist or violinist can make a big impact on the mood.
5. Get creative with the ceremony: Consider having the ceremony outside the hospital room, such as in the hospital's courtyard or another nearby outdoor space. You can also get creative with the ceremony itself by incorporating personalized vows, readings, or rituals that are meaningful to the couple.

This post was outlined with the assistance of ChatGPT. We love technology!