Youre still the one: How vow renewal ceremonies celebrate enduring love

In sickness and in health: This promise, part of the traditional wedding vows, carries a weight not always easily upheld.But for Kristy Durso, 46, and husband Ryan, 45, the pair continues to honor their marital pact, even after her life-altering health diagnosis.The couple met in Monterrey, Calif., 25 years ago, when they were both in the military, on active duty.“We met in February and by May I knew I wanted to marry him,” said Kristy.

“He proposed that September.”They set the date in February 2000, but five days before the wedding, Kristy had to be discharged from the military for health reasons.Though it took a decade, she was ultimately diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a rare, progressive, degenerative neuropathy disorder, among other serious debilitating conditions.By then, the couple had two children and later adopted a third with his own health challenges.

As a wheelchair user and travel agency owner, Kristy was inspired to specialize in planning trips for families with disabilities.She learned that Beaches Resorts, which operates in the Caribbean, is a leading hospitality company for the autism and special needs communities.“I approached their weddings team and encouraged them to showcase what’s possible at their resorts,” said Kristy.

“They loved the idea, so we planned to renew our wedding vows at their Turks & Caicos property.”For the event last February, “Their team helped me bring a vision to life.People automatically assume when you’ve got a disability, the experience will be less.But it doesn’t have to be.

I wanted everything to be just as detailed, intimate and beautiful as if I were a bride who could walk.”To this end, “The company built a lovely, white wooden ramp for me to have access to the beach,” said Kristy.“They put a platform in the sand for me, so I could dance our first dance using my wheelchair, manually.

I didn’t want to be pushed — you lose your autonomy.If it’s Ryan pushing me, he�...