This archive report was first published on 16 July 2020.
On July 4, 2020, a Burundian couple, Charlotte Mukantwari and Gabin Ndayizigiye, defied all odds and exchanged their vows in a hospital, after the groom was involved in a life-altering accident just three days prior.
The couple had been dating for a long time and had vowed to live as husband and wife till death. However, their plans were put to the test when Gabin broke his leg after being hit by a vehicle, leaving him unconscious.
Speaking after the wedding, Gabin recalled the events that transpired after the accident, saying, “When I came back to, I found myself lying in a ditch with dirty water and my leg was swollen. At the hospital, they were initially hesitant to tell Charlotte what had befallen me. When she was finally informed about my accident, she promptly came to visit.”
Despite the groom's condition, Charlotte remained resolute in her decision to go through with the wedding. She encouraged Gabin, saying, “If God gave me reprieve, our wedding would go on as planned.”
With the Catholic Church's approval, the couple's unorthodox union attracted a large crowd of onlookers keen on witnessing the triumph of love. The hospital management prepared a room for the two to exchange vows and provided a wheelchair for the groom.
“Our wedding day was great. We received blessings and exchanged rings before I was wheeled back to the ward,” concluded the groom.
