Couple Diagnosed with Same Illness, a 1-in-a-Million Chance, Show Unwavering Strength

A couple diagnosed with MS is a one-in-a-million chance, and incredibly, they show unwavering strength to the world.

When couples stand at the altar, exchanging vows with hearts brimming with love and anticipation, they often utter the timeless words, "I do," without fully comprehending the depth of their meaning. It's a moment of profound commitment, a promise to journey together through life's twists and turns, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health. Lauren and Josh are showing the world their one-in-a-million chance means something. 

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The Couple Was Both Diagnosed With MS

In a journey that began with high school romance and traversed the trials of military service, Josh and Lauren Adkins faced an unexpected challenge that tested the depth of their love and commitment. Little did they know that the solemn vow to stand by each other within the bounds of their vows in ‘sickness and in health’ would be their reality. The ultimate test being they both went to war with the same formidable foe: multiple sclerosis (MS).

“In a weird way, it gave us peace of mind because we knew what to expect,” Josh said when he learned the disease that was attacking his wife was the one he had dealt with for years. He never imagined she would walk the same path. 

“We see how good Josh has done with his treatment for going on 10 years,” Lauren said. “He has not let it stop him from doing anything that he's wanted to do.”

Josh Was the First to Receive the Diagnosis

Their story unfolds like a testament to resilience and unwavering support. Josh, now 33, was the first to receive the diagnosis in 2015, just a year after their joyous union. They determined not to let it dim the brightness of their shared future.

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For Lauren, 30, the news of her diagnosis, received a mere three months ago, added a new layer of complexity to their journey. Yet, in the face of this unexpected twist of fate, their bond remained unyielding. Josh had even given Lauren an out.

He told Lauren she didn’t have to stick around if his disease got the best of him. Yet, she ignored his pleas and married him anyway. 

Couple Diagnosed With MS Is One-in-a-Million Chance

Dr. Robert Bermel, Josh’s neurologist at Cleveland Clinic, was mystified when he learned about Lauren. 

“It’s literally close to one-in-a-million chance that a spouse of someone with MS would develop the disease,” Dr. Bermel said. “I have never seen it at the (Mellen) Center, and we follow about 12,000 patients.”

Drawing Strength From Their Shared Experiences 

Their journey as a couple diagnosed with MS has been marked by moments of doubt and uncertainty. Yet, in that pivotal moment, their love shone brightest, reaffirming their commitment to weathering life's storms together.

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Despite the odds stacked against them, Josh and Lauren draw strength from their shared experiences and the love that binds them with the strength of the Lord at the center. As they navigate the familiar and unfamiliar territory of MS, they remain steadfast in their resolve to live life to the fullest. They are fully cherishing each moment as a precious gift. Together, they shower that love over their two children. 

Their journey serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. They are a testament to the transformative power of love and unwavering support. Together, they are living proof that love conquers all, even in the darkest times. As they walk hand in hand, facing life's challenges together, they discover the profound beauty of the vows they once spoke, realizing that "I do" is not just a promise—it's a sacred bond that binds them together for a lifetime.

Spouses Both Get MS — a 'One-in-a-Million' Chance: ‘Can’t Imagine Going Through This with Anyone Else’ (Exclusive) https://t.co/4GYW6jrWip

— People (@people) February 14, 2024

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken,” Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. 

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h/t: People

Featured Image Credit: Twitter/People 

Heather Riggleman is a believer, wife, mom, author, social media consultant, and full-time writer. She lives in Minden, Nebraska with her kids, high school sweetheart, and three cats who are her entourage around the homestead. She is a former award-winning journalist with over 2,000 articles published. She is full of grace and grit, raw honesty, and truly believes tacos can solve just about any situation. You can find her on GodUpdates, iBelieve, Crosswalk, Hello Darling, Focus On The Family, and in Brio Magazine. Connect with her at www.HeatherRiggleman.com or on Facebook.