With a determined look in his eyes, he grasped the arms of the chair and, with great effort, stood up. The room fell silent, all eyes fixed on him. I was frozen in shock and awe. He’s standing, I thought. He’s really standing!

For months, he had been working tirelessly in physical therapy, keeping it a secret from me. He had been determined to stand during our wedding, to show everyone, and especially me, that he was still the man I fell in love with. It was his gift to me, a testament to his strength and determination, and as he took a step toward me, the room erupted in applause and cheers.

Tears filled my eyes as he reached out to hold my hands, his grip strong and reassuring. “I wanted to stand beside you on our wedding day,” he said softly, his voice filled with emotion. “Because I want to stand by you for the rest of our lives.”