In The News: Love Sick Swine Flu Couple Wed
I’m not sure whether to say “Oy Vey” or “Mazel Tov!”
In addition to their veil and yarmulke, Ilana Jackson and Jeremy Fierstien donned surgical masks and latex gloves to their June 14th wedding. The reason? The couple had contracted swine flu just 48 hours prior to their big day. After being assured by their doctors that they would not be putting their guests at serious risk, they decided to move forward with their wedding at North Suburban Synagogue Beth El in Highland Park, Illinois.
Some last minute concessions had to be made–rather than walk down the aisle, the couple kept 10 feet of distance from their guests, choosing instead to walk around them. The hairstylist that the bride had hired refused to do her hair, so a friend took over instead. The couple also gave out hand sanitizers as party favors.
Despite the circumstances, the couple remained in good spirits. Jeremy Fierstien, who is studying to become a rabbi was quoted in the Chicago Tribune as saying “We were determined to make the most of a bad situation,” “Was it unfortunate? Yes. Disappointing? Yes. But we’ve had a really good attitude about it.”
To that, I say “Amen.”
Photo Credit: Studio Photography/Sukit Subaneksanti
3 comments
Yowza. Mad props to them for going ahead with it. May they both recover!
First let me say… Mazel Tov to the bride and groom!
Secondly… Now that’s what I call phenominal and G-dly Chutzpah! ;)
How are they both doing now?
I wish them the best and hope they make a speedy recovery!
Imagine the stories they will be able to tell their children of how powerful their love was that even the Swine Flu could not keep them apart!
I am a little teary, nevertheless, more than a little inspired by this story and mostly by their DETERMINATION!
Shalom,
Roz Fruchtman
Say It With eCards
As proud father of the bride, I can state thate 2 days later they were both fine and very happy. kol sasson ve-kol simcha.
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