Pasan Nanayakkara
When Zach Stroup was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in November 2020, he had already beaten cancer once before. His fiancé, Madison, stood by his side as he underwent six rounds of chemotherapy, and eventually went into remission in May 2021. The couple started planning for a large wedding, but unfortunately, Zach’s cancer resurfaced in his spinal cord.
#
Facing the worst prognosis possible, the couple was forced to make a difficult decision. Instead of giving up, they chose to get married in the oncology ward ahead of schedule. In less than 48 hours, surrounded by supportive staff members, Zach’s doctors and nurses, and other cancer patients and their families, Zach and Madison exchanged vows.
#
Despite the challenges they faced, the couple remained strong and determined. Madison became Zach’s full-time caregiver and companion, supporting him through eight more rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, and rehabilitation. But when the treatment was no longer effective, the couple refused to give up hope.
#
Zach had a bone marrow transplant in the spring of 2022, which successfully treated his cancer. He is currently in remission and is starting his healing process. Zach and Madison even got to go on their honeymoon, and their love story continues to inspire others.
#
Zach’s fight against cancer and his refusal to give up is an inspiration to all those facing difficult challenges in life. His love story with Madison shows that even in the face of the worst prognosis, hope and determination can lead to a happy ending. As Madison said on Facebook, “Our faith was the only thing we had left, and we never gave up hope. Zach is a fighter, and I can’t wait to see him recover and improve.”
#
In the end, Zach’s story reminds us that life is precious, and we should never take a single moment for granted. We wish Zach and Madison all the best in their future together, and hope that their story continues to inspire others to never give up, no matter the odds.
