“(WXYZ) – The walk down the aisle is an emotional journey for most brides.

And for Konnie Tabbert, even more symbolic because the path to her groom, John Jeffire, was paved with many challenges.

“I knew that I could love you, because you saw me and not my disease,” Konnie recited to John during the couple’s vows at the Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township on Thursday afternoon.

Konnie has Chiari malformation, a rare abnormality in the brain.  The condition wreaks havoc on her central nervous system.

She also suffers from Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, a collagen defect that results in very thin vascular system and hyper mobility.

“It’s the glue that holds your body together…I don’t have that,” said Konnie. “My ligaments are like overstretched rubber bands.”

But today wasn’t about her condition, it was about celebrating the love that Konnie and John have for one another.

“She’s amazing. I feel like I’m the lucky one,” said John.

The pair met, fell in love and got engaged–but the looming wedding expenses seemed a little overwhelming.

So, one nonprofit stepped in to throw the love birds the wedding of their dreams, all for free.

“I’m just blown away,” said Konnie.

Wish Upon A Wedding  is a national nonprofit that grants weddings and vow renewals to couples facing terminal illness and serious life altering circumstances.

John and Konnie were the first couple to be granted a wish from the Michigan chapter–a  wish granted for a love that is truly strong in sickness and in health.

“John came into my life and gave me the gift of love and hope,” said Konnie.

The couple is currently planning an April honeymoon.

To learn more about Wish Upon A Wedding, sign up to be a Wish Granter, or donate, go to www.wishuponawedding.org .”