They Met As Cancer Patients At St. Jude's. 25 Years Later, They Tied The Knot

September 26, 2018

Joel Alsup and Lindsey Wilkerson tied the knot this month, 25 years after first meeting as patients at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

childhood cancer survivors get married
Credit: ALSAC / St. Jude's

Lindsey was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia when she was 10. Joel was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at age 7.

"When I met this guy, when I was in treatment, I admired him," Lindsey said of her now-husband. "I looked up to him, I thought he was such an incredible person. We grew in our friendship over the years."

childhood cancer survivors get married
Credit: FOX News

Lindsey and Joel lost touch when they went their separate ways for college, but it was St. Jude's that brought them back together again.

Both would end up working at the children's hospital that saved their lives many years ago.

Lindsey, now 37, ran into Joel on her first day on the job. She said she instantly recognized his smile.

"I was finally brave enough to tell her that I liked her, not only that but that I loved her," Joel, now 38, told Fox 13. "Luckily she felt the same way."

The couple tied the knot on Sept. 1 at St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN.

"I could have never fathomed that I'd be sitting here today, at his side, as his wife, having the privilege to be married on the grounds of the place that saved our lives," Lindsey said.

The Alsups included other former cancer patients in their wedding party, and hope that their story helps to inspire others.

Watch the video below.