SUNDIAL HOSTS VOW RENEWAL FOR TERMINALLY-ILL WOMAN WITH DREAM FOUNDATION

Terminally-Ill Woman Renews Wedding Vows in Sanibel Island Dream Ceremony Thanks to Dream Foundation, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, and the Sanibel Island Community 

Sanibel Island, Fl (June 23, 2026) – At sunset on June 16th, 50-year-old Abby Killion and her husband, Josh, renewed their wedding vows at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa. The intimate ceremony took place in the presence of their children, Addison (16) and Aiden (13). 

Abby, who has been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, shared this heartwarming event as her final Dream – made possible by Dream Foundation and the incredible generosity of Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and the Sanibel Island community. 

Abby and Josh, who live in Indiana, have been married for nearly 20 years. When doctors initially told Abby that her brain cancer was terminal, she set her heart on renewing her vows “on a beautiful beach surrounded by our children.” 

“It was a vital, lasting gift for my family,” Abby said. “For so many months, my children have primarily witnessed their mother fighting a losing battle, seeing pain and fear. My last treasured memory needed to be keeping that promise to [my husband] and showing our children what eternal love and loyalty look like.” 

Originally, Abby and Josh had no way of making the beachside ceremony possible. With time running out, Abby reached out to Dream Foundation, the only national Dream-granting organization for terminally-ill adults. The whole family was overjoyed when they learned Abby’s Dream had been granted, and the subsequent response from the Sanibel community was overwhelming. 

“Sundial Beach Resort & Spa immediately offered to host the event and welcome the family as guests, and their staff worked closely with Dream Foundation’s Dream Coordinator to help plan the perfect event,” said Dream Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Kisa Heyer. “Everybody we spoke to wanted to help create a beautiful ceremony and an unforgettable experience.” 

The support started right from the journey itself. Dream Foundation’s longest-running travel partner, Alaska Airlines, flew the family from Indiana to Florida, while car-hosting service TURO provided a vehicle so the family could explore the island at their leisure. The family stayed as guests for four nights at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, enjoying miles of shell-strewn beaches and relaxing in the tropical surroundings. 

As the waves crashed along the shoreline at sunset, Abby walked down the aisle to Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One”. She wore the exact same dress she wore when she first married Josh, nineteen years ago. Addison served as the Maid of Honor, and Aiden stood by his father’s side as the Best Man. 

“The moment was magical,” gushed Tiffany Beyke, Director of Sales and Catering at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa. “Abby was radiant, and Josh was beaming with pride. Together, they exemplified the meaning of ‘for better, or for worse’ and demonstrated the power of facing life hand in hand. Life is what you make of it, and these two are undeniably embracing it in every way. We feel incredibly blessed to have witnessed such a beautiful celebration of love and are truly honored to have been part of their special day.” 

The ceremony was officiated by Jennifer Manzo, who has since become close with the family, even treating Abby and Addison to mani-pedis and offering her ongoing friendship and support. 

Local Sanibel floral designer Floral Artistry Studio supplied the bouquets, boutonnieres, and a stunning archway arrangement, all featuring carnations – Abby’s favorite flower. Following the ceremony, a small reception was held in the resort’s Flamingo Room, where guests enjoyed a red velvet cake with vanilla icing supplied by artisanal baker LadyCakes Bakery. Wedding photographer Veronica Costa was on hand to capture the special event. 

“Every family deserves the opportunity to celebrate the moments that matter most,” said Becky Miller, General Manager of Sundial Beach Resort & Spa. “When we learned about Abby’s Dream to renew her vows and create lasting memories with her family, we knew we wanted to help. It was a privilege to welcome them to Sundial and be part of such a beautiful expression of love and commitment. We are deeply grateful to Dream Foundation for making experiences like this possible.” 

Prior to the trip, employees of Genentech hosted a special Dream Delivery, presenting the family with everything provided for their getaway. Genentech has helped Dream Foundation make 1,315 Dreams come true since 2017, with employee volunteers delivering 2,300 Dreams across the country. 

To ensure their extended family and friends back home in Indiana could share in the unforgettable event, Abby and Josh live-streamed the entire ceremony.