'I Wouldn't Change Anything': Hospital Surprises Couple With Dream Wedding After Cancer Diagnosis

January 11, 2026

A Colorado hospital threw a surprise wedding for a couple whose 11-year relationship was suddenly cut short when the bride received a devastating cancer diagnosis.

Aliana and Bailey Gleason / 9 News Colorado

Aliana and Bailey Gleason had always dreamed of getting married someday, but they kept putting it off while waiting for the “perfect” time. Then Aliana received devastating news: she has a rare sarcoma that has spread to her spine, leaving doctors with very limited treatment options.

Suddenly, nothing felt more important than being married.

When staff at HCA HealthOne Swedish Hospital in Englewood, Colorado, learned that the couple had just gotten engaged, they decided to step in and do something extraordinary. In only two days, nurses, doctors, and hospital staff organized a beautiful wedding inside the hospital — completely free — so the couple wouldn’t have to wait.

“There isn’t always a lot you can do,” nurse manager Matt Turrie told 9 News. “But when you can bring love and joy into someone’s life, you do it.”

Even while facing painful treatments and difficult news, Aliana kept smiling. The staff said her strength and spirit inspired everyone around her.

The couple said they felt like their special day was exactly what it was meant to be.

“I wouldn’t change anything,” Bailey Gleason told KUSA.

“Me either,” Aliana Gleason said.

Supporters have also started a GoFundMe to help the family with the many expenses that come with long hospital stays as Aliana enters hospice care in Denver.