A Colorado bride diagnosed with multiple sclerosis surprised her wedding guests by walking 68 feet down the aisle on April 25.
Amber McConkey, 38, had relied on a wheelchair for the past two years.
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She underwent months of intensive physical therapy and used a specialized functional electrical stimulation device. The ceremony took place at Pinecrest Weddings and Event Center in Palmer Lake.
A Secret Goal
McConkey kept her physical therapy progress a secret from most of her 125 wedding guests.
Only the couple's parents, wedding party, coordinator, and photographer knew she planned to walk with support from her father and brother.
She was diagnosed with the chronic autoimmune disorder in 2015.
The bride utilized a functional electrical stimulation device from Bioness starting in January to stimulate specific nerves and muscles.
Her physical therapist mapped out the exact 68-foot distance during bi-weekly sessions. The goal was to build her physical endurance for the ceremony entrance.
Walking down the aisle was an essential milestone for her family, including her three children. She wanted to demonstrate perseverance.
"To me, walking down the aisle is just a huge part of becoming a wife and getting married," McConkey said.
"I'm very stubborn and I'm always going to work hard to try to walk."
She wanted to serve as a strong example for her 12-year-old son, 10-year-old daughter, and 8-year-old daughter.
"We have three kids as well. I want to show them that they can do anything," she said.
"It was just a non-negotiable to me. I was going to do whatever it took."
Intensive Preparation
The physical therapy routine included riding a motion bike to simulate the physical exhaustion she would encounter on the actual wedding day.
"Once there was a few times that I had made the 68 feet, it was, 'Okay, now let's put you on the new motion bike, and let's wear you out a little bit because it's your wedding day, you're going to get worn out,'" McConkey said.
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Her therapists intentionally pushed her limits to ensure she could overcome any physical obstacles during the high-pressure event.
"They were like, 'Let's wear you out.
Let's make sure no matter what obstacle there is going to be that you're getting down that aisle,'" she said.
McConkey entered the venue as the song "Tangled Up in You" by Aaron Lewis played. The music caused emotional reactions throughout the room.
