A Final Wish Fulfilled: 10-Year-Old Emma Marries Her Best Friend Before Losing Her Battle with Cancer
Ask any parent—there’s nothing they wouldn’t do for their child. The moment a child is born, everything changes. Our priorities shift, and life becomes centered around protecting and loving that little person with everything we have. But as much as we try, some things are beyond our control.
For Alina and Aaron Edwards, life turned upside down when their 9-year-old daughter, Emma, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. They clung to hope through rounds of treatment, but after several months, doctors delivered heartbreaking news: there was nothing more they could do.
Determined to make the most of the time they had left, Emma’s parents asked her what she wanted most. Her answer wasn’t a trip to Disney World or a meet-and-greet with a celebrity. What Emma wanted—more than anything—was to marry her best friend and boyfriend, DJ, who was also just 10 years old.
As word of Emma’s wish spread, the local community rallied around her. Volunteers formed “Emma’s Army” to help bring her dream wedding to life. With support from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and countless kind strangers, plans came together quickly.
“Most kids want to go to Disneyland,” Emma’s mom, Alina, shared. “But Emma wanted to get married, be a wife, and have three kids.”
Emma and DJ had actually tried to “get married” once before—when they were eight. They picked out classmates to be in their wedding party, but their teacher gently shut down the plan. This time, with full support from their parents and the community, the ceremony was on.
“We pulled it off in less than two days,” said Alina. “Everything was donated. It was so precious.”
On June 29, 2023, Emma arrived at the venue in a wheelchair, beaming in a purple dress as her dad walked her down the aisle. DJ, the young groom, waited proudly. The two exchanged rings and vows, and DJ sealed the moment with a kiss.
“I thought she was the most beautiful person I ever saw,” DJ said. “Ever since, I loved her.”
Alina shared a heartfelt tribute to DJ on Facebook, writing:
“DJ has been Emma’s ‘Boo Bear’ since 3rd grade. He protects her, helps her, and keeps her smiling. She loves him, and I know he loves her too. DJ will always be family.”
After the ceremony, Emma returned to rest—but her joy was undeniable. Just a few weeks later, on July 11, Emma passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Her obituary read in part:
“Emma Brooks Edwards entered heaven and into the loving arms of her Great-grandma Frannie Annie on July 11, 2023. Emma was 10 years old and battled ‘The Imposter,’ leukemia, for 16 months… She loved arts and crafts, practical jokes, her family and friends, Jesus, and her newlywed ‘husband,’ DJ. Emma was a light to everyone who knew her. Her legacy is one of strength, humor, and boundless love.”
Emma’s story is one of courage, innocence, and the power of love—even in life’s most painful moments. She may have only had 10 years on this earth, but she left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.
