In life, things happen unexpectedly and can take a turn in ways that we never foresee. When these things happen, we have no choice but to fight through the hardships like no other. However, sometimes, when we go through hardships, things can be pretty bad and harsh.
In the long run, it's about how we rise to the occasion and who is there to support us through it all.
Rachelle Friedman Chapman was with friends at a bachelorette party before she was going to tie the knot with her then-fiancé, Chris Chapman, in 2010.
One of her bridesmaids decided to playfully push her into a pool and, something truly awful happened.
Although the push was playful, Rachelle fractured the C6 vertebra in her neck, which left her paralyzed from the chest down.
After this injury, Rachelle was bound to a wheelchair and unable to use the majority of her body.
The two had to postpone their wedding in 2010 until 2011, as Rachelle was beginning physical therapy and recovery from the accident. Not only did her body suffer, but her mental health took a toll on her, as well.
Rachelle told TODAY that she lost a lot of friends throughout the injury and recovery process.
"For the first year it was about the girl who pushed me in, and we just cared about her being OK. I think I worked her through that, but once she was done getting support from me, and I needed the support after the first year, I was left alone with my injury," she explained.
"I had another friend who blames me for the accident for how I chose to go into the pool. It was really bad for my mental health to continue to be friends, and it was really toxic for a while, so it was really sad because these were two childhood friends," she continued.
But, 11 years later, Rachelle and Chris decided to renew their vows and showcase that love concurs all.
After losing her original diamond engagement ring, Chris decided to re-propose to his beloved wife and ask to renew their vows. This time, it was a little more special than the first.
"When we first got married, we wanted to show the world true love did exist. We did this one for us, to celebrate our love 10 years after a lot of people doubted that it could last forever," Rachelle shared.
This time around was even more special because their 6-year-old daughter, Kaylee, was able to be there.
"We exchanged rings and we also got a special ring for Kaylee, with all of our birth stones together. We put that on her finger, so there was a whole little moment for her that felt more special," Rachelle shared.
Their story is that much more special, the couple shared because they can advocate and showcase to others with disabilities that everything in life is possible—such as finding love, having a family, and defying the odds.
Congratulations to the wonderful couple!
