Ask any parent, and they’ll tell you there’s nothing they wouldn’t do for their child.
From the moment we become parents, our lives change in ways that are hard to put into words. We accept that our days will be spent caring for, loving, and worrying about the precious new life we’ve brought into the world.
Yet, despite all our hopes, some things are beyond a parent’s control. Accidents and illness touch far too many children each year, bringing pain and heartache no family should ever face.
For Alina and Aaron Edwards, their world was shattered when their nine-year-old daughter, Emma, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Though devastated, they held on to hope that she could beat cancer — only to be told months later that nothing more could be done.
Determined to make the most of the time they had left, Emma’s parents vowed to fulfill her wishes.
While many children might dream of meeting a celebrity or visiting Disneyland, Emma’s wish was different — she wanted to marry her boyfriend, DJ, who was just ten years old.
Emma’s story quickly touched hearts across their community. Volunteers and supporters rallied around the cause, calling themselves “Emma’s Army,” all working together to make her dream come true.
Eventually, the Make-A-Wish Foundation stepped in to help raise funds. Emma’s mom, Alina, said, “Most kids want to go to Disneyland, but Emma wanted to get married, be a wife, and have three kids.”
In fact, Emma and DJ had already tried to marry once before — at school when they were eight. They had even chosen bridesmaids and groomsmen from their classmates. But their teacher wouldn’t allow it, no matter how informal the ceremony was.
This time, however, with the blessing of their parents and the support of countless kind-hearted people, their wedding became a reality.
“We put it together in less than two days, with everything donated. It was so precious, and it all came together beautifully,” Alina shared.
When the big day arrived, it was beautifully captured on video, including heartfelt interviews with some of the guests—most notably, the groom, DJ.
“I thought she was the most beautiful person I ever saw. Ever since, I’ve loved her,” DJ said simply.
Alina, Emma’s mother, shared a touching message on Facebook about her daughter’s young boyfriend:
“DJ has been Emma’s ‘Boo bear’ since third grade, and honestly, seeing these two together will melt your heart. DJ protects her, helps her, and makes her heart soar. She loves him, and I know he loves her too! He has stood by her through all her ups and downs, keeping her smiling the entire time. DJ will forever be family.”
On June 29, Emma’s dream finally came true. Arriving at the venue in a wheelchair pushed by her parents, she wore a stunning purple dress and beamed as her father gently guided her down the aisle.
Emma and DJ exchanged rings and vows, sealing their promise with a sweet kiss. After the ceremony, Emma returned to her bed to rest, but the joy of her special day was clear to everyone around her.
Just a few weeks later, on July 11, 2023, Emma peacefully passed away after her courageous fight.
Her obituary read:
“Emma Brooks Edwards entered heaven and into the loving arms of her Great-grandma Frannie Annie on July 11, 2023, surrounded by those who loved her most. Emma was 10 years old and battled ‘The Imposter,’ Leukemia, for 16 months. Our little unicorn, born April 22, 2013, was the beloved daughter of adoring parents and the youngest of four siblings. She loved arts and crafts, practical jokes, her family and friends, Jesus, and her newlywed ‘husband,’ DJ. Emma was a light to all who knew her and an inspiration to everyone she met. She was the best daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, aunt, ‘wife’ — and friend. Her legacy is one of strength, humor, and boundless love for all.”
Rest in peace, Emma — a beautiful soul taken far too soon.
Let’s send our prayers and love to all those fighting cancer, and to the families standing strong beside them.