Jim Zetz knew that he didn’t have long on this earth. He was a father that was fighting a losing battle against Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. So, he wanted to do something special for the beloved wife and daughter he was going to leave behind.

It all started with a photo series by photographer Lindsey Villatoro. She took pictures of Jim and Grace during one of her “forever loved” photo sessions. After meeting the couple, she was moved. She said they were “the most beautiful people I’ve known are those who have known trials, have known struggles, have known loss, and have found their way out of the depths.”

Since Jim’s future was so uncertain, Lindsey wanted to help the family make a memory they could cherish forever. The resulting moment is so touching, you might need to grab a few tissues when you see it.

Grace told the photographer that their 11 year-old, Josie, was sad her father would miss so many things in her life.

With Lindsey’s help, the Zetz family organized a special moment for Josie and her daddy.

It was on Josie’s 11th birthday.

Since Jim wouldn’t be around to see her real wedding, they threw a wedding for the little girl he COULD attend.

Jim walked Josie down the aisle…

Slipped a ring on her finger and they were pronounced “daddy and daughter.”

No matter what happens with Jim, this is a moment that he and his daughter will have forever.

They won’t forget it, and neither will anyone there that day.

“I met Josie [the day of the wedding],” the photographer said. “She was a little bit overwhelmed when her mom picked her up from school and told her. She just needed a moment. Later, she said, ‘This is the best day of my life.’ She was very glad and excited to have these moments.”

To see more of Lindsey’s work, visit her online portfolio.

Source: Love Song Photography via Daily Mail / Viralnova

It’s tragic that sickness tears loving families apart. This reminds us to embrace and appreciate those we love while we can. Please share this wonderful moment the Zetz family experienced with others.