93-Year-Old Grandfather Travels 40 Hours to Surprise His Grandson on His Wedding Day

One grandpa in Rwanda was determined not to miss his grandson’s wedding. So the 93-year-old did what he had to do—and flew all the way to Arizona by himself to surprise his grandson. It really is a miracle.

Grandfather Gives Grandson Surprise of a Lifetime

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It was no small feat for grandfather Gatera. He had to travel for 40 hours, with missing flights and long layovers, to be there for his grandson, Jeff Mugongo.

Jeff shared a video of his grandpa surprising him, which went viral. Jeff froze when he saw him before tearing up and embracing him. Gatera just laughed, hugged him, and smiled.

All of Jeff’s family and friends knew Gatera was coming, but kept it a secret from Jeff.

“They definitely got me with this amazing gift and surprise!” Jeff said.

Jeff didn’t have great relationships with the male figures in his family, except for his grandfather, who “was the one who always made an effort to just communicate with us and get to know him.”

Grandfather’s Travel Was no Easy Feat

Gatera was the last person Jeff expected to see, as he was recovering from a stroke and had difficulty getting a visa. He also didn’t know any English.

“I couldn’t control the tears that [were] coming out of my eyes. And he was like, ‘Don’t cry,’” Jeff said. “It’s just incredible to witness that, through all the odds, that he would show up for my special day.”

“Moments that only happen once are gifts and grace we never deserve,” Jeff said. “I thank God for this moment and my family and friends who prayed for this moment to happen."

The Best Wedding Day

Gatera was overjoyed to celebrate with his grandson and even showed off some of his moves on the dance floor with Jeff.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeff Mugongo (@jeff_olly)

“The layovers, tiredness and long hour flights didn’t stop grandpa’s dance moves!” Jeff said. “HE STOLE the whole show!!”

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“He showed me that no matter what, you have to show up for your family," he said. "It made people appreciate grandparents and their love and the strength they have.”

What a tremendous impact Gatera has on Jeff’s life. Jeff and his family will surely never forget this painstaking and heartfelt gesture. Hopefully, Gatera doesn’t have to fly back too soon!

WATCH: 93-Year-Old Grandfather Travels 40 Hours to Surprise His Grandson on His Wedding Day

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeff Mugongo (@jeff_olly)

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h/t: People

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/jeff_olly

Michaela Gordoni is an avid reader and part-time globe-trotter. With a bachelor's degree in International Relations and experience in the non-profit world, she has a passion for people and reporting. You can check out her portfolio here.