She throws beautiful dream weddings for terminally ill patients

After losing her father to leukemia, Lacey Wicksall, executive director of Wish Upon a Wedding, understands the desperate need for joy during times of despair. Now, the nonprofit has provided free weddings and vow renewal ceremonies to more than 300 couples, filling hearts with love and hope!

- Diane Herbst

Karen and Rich were the first couple Lacey helped, and remembering their joy inspires her to keep creating magical moments

We have to make this the most magical experience, Lacey Wicksall thought as she talked on the phone with Karen Mastropietro, who had stage 4 ovarian cancer.

It was Lacey Wicksall's first day working as executive director for Wish Upon a Wedding (WishUponAWedding.org), a nonprofit that alleviates the financial burden of weddings and vow renewal ceremonies for couples facing terminal illness or life-altering health circumstances.

Lacey helps spread smiles to those struggling with illnesses, and she finds joy in creating beautiful memories that last forever

“We want to stand up in front of our daughters and our family and friends and show everyone that we're still madly in love,” Karen and her husband, Rich, told Lacey.

Lacey's heart swelled as she witnessed the power of their devotion. I can't wait to give them this gift, she thought.

A spark of hope