The day we become a mother or father, our lives change in the most indescribable ways. We accept that we will spend the rest of our time on this earth caring for, cherishing, and worrying about the new life that we have given unto the world.
And yet, sadly, there are some things that no parent can prevent. Accidents and illness are as much a part of human life as joy and celebration are, and each year far too many children find themselves suffering from situations and ailments that are wholly out of their control.
Alina and Aaron Edwards’ lives were forever changed the day they received the news no parent is ever prepared to hear: their nine-year-old daughter, Emma, had been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Though heartbroken, they held tightly to the hope that Emma could overcome the illness. But after a few months of treatment, doctors delivered the devastating update — there was nothing more they could do. Emma’s time was heartbreakingly limited.
Faced with the unthinkable, her parents resolved to make every remaining moment count and fulfill as many of Emma’s wishes as possible.
Most children in Emma’s position might dream of meeting a celebrity, visiting Disneyland, or standing beside their favorite athlete. But Emma’s wish was different. What she wanted most was to marry her best friend and boyfriend, DJ — a ten-year-old boy who had stood by her side through it all.
“I have so much more to say and so many people to thank after Sunday,” one family member wrote, “but right now, my brain is just not… brain-ing.”
It didn’t take long for Emma’s story to touch hearts across her local community. A growing group of volunteers and supporters soon rallied around her, calling themselves “Emma’s Army.” Their mission was clear: to help make every one of Emma’s dreams come true in the time she had left.
Eventually, Make-A-Wish Foundation joined effort, stepping in to support Emma’s family and help raise necessary funds.
“Most kids wish for a trip to Disneyland,” Emma’s mother, Alina, shared. “But Emma wanted something different — she wanted to get married, be a wife, and have three children.”
As it turns out, this wasn’t Emma and DJ’s first attempt at tying knot. When they were just eight years old, young couple had planned a wedding at school, choosing their classmates to be bridesmaids and groomsmen. But despite their sweet intentions, school didn’t allow the ceremony to take place — even unofficially.
This time, though, their dream had the full blessing of their families and a community determined to make it happen.
“We pulled it together in less than two days,” Alina said. “Everything was donated — the dress, flowers, cake. It was so precious, and it came together beautifully.”
When big day arrived, it was all captured on video — a touching tribute to Emma’s dream, complete with interviews from friends, family, and even the young groom himself.
“I thought she was the most beautiful person I ever saw,” DJ said softly. “I’ve loved her ever since.”
Emma’s mother, Alina, was deeply moved by the bond two children shared. In a heartfelt Facebook post, she expressed her gratitude and admiration for DJ:
“DJ has been Emma’s ‘Boo Bear’ since third grade, and let me tell you — 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’s stood by her through every high and low, keeping her smiling all way.
DJ will always be part of our family.”
Emma’s Special Day
On June 29, Emma’s dream came true.
Dressed in a beautiful purple gown and beaming with joy, Emma arrived at the venue in a wheelchair, lovingly pushed by her parents. Her face lit up as her father proudly walked her down the aisle.
Emma and DJ exchanged rings and heartfelt vows, sealing their love with a sweet kiss. It was a moment filled with innocence, love, and profound beauty — a memory that will live on in the hearts of all who witnessed it.
After the ceremony, Emma returned to rest, exhausted but glowing with happiness. She had gotten her special day — one she had wished for with all her heart.
Just a few weeks later, on July 11, 2023, Emma passed away following her brave battle with leukemia.
Her obituary read:
“Emma Brooks Edwards entered heaven and into 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 ‘ Imposter,’ leukemia, for 16 months.
Emma, our little unicorn, was born on April 22, 2013, to adoring parents and three older siblings, completing Edwards family. She loved arts and crafts, practical jokes, her family and friends, Jesus, and her newlywed ‘husband,’ DJ.
Emma was a light to all who loved her and an inspiration to everyone she met. She was best daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, aunt, ‘wife’ (lol), and friend anyone could ask for.
Her legacy is one of strength, laughter, and boundless love.”
Rest in peace, sweet Emma.
A beautiful soul taken far too soon — but never forgotten.
