Fort Worth Couples with Dementia Renew Vows at Valentine's Day Event

The James L. West Center for Dementia Care Senior Day Program hosted its first-ever vow renewal celebration.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Fifteen couples living with dementia renewed their wedding vows during a special Valentine's Day event hosted by the James L. West Center for Dementia Care Senior Day Program in Fort Worth, Texas. The event was created to honor the enduring love between the couples, even as one partner's memories fade.

Why it matters

The vow renewal ceremony highlights the importance of validating the love and caregiving that continues in couples affected by dementia. It provides a meaningful way for spouses to cherish moments of clarity and affirm their commitment, despite the challenges of the disease.

The details

The vow renewal ceremony was followed by a dinner, dancing, and family photos. Participants included couples who attend the day program regularly, as well as those who care for loved ones at home. The event was coordinated by the center's life enrichment coordinator, Lakeisha Siren, to create a special experience for the couples.

  • The vow renewal ceremony took place on February 13, 2026, the night before Valentine's Day.

The players

James L. West Center for Dementia Care Senior Day Program

A center that provides a daily resource and safe space for individuals living with dementia, offering activities, programs, and support for both the person with dementia and their caregiver.

Heather Macchietto

The director of the Senior Day Program, who emphasized the importance of validating the love and caregiving that continues in couples affected by dementia.

Lakeisha Siren

The life enrichment coordinator of the program, who created and coordinated the vow renewal event.

Eva Cox

A participant in the vow renewal ceremony, who expressed her appreciation for the event and the trouble the center went to in order to host it.

Paula Brussow

A participant who held the original bouquet from her wedding 48 years ago as she renewed her vows with her husband, Jerry, who has dementia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Even if memories disappear, the love doesn't go away.”

— Heather Macchietto, Director of the Senior Day Program (fortworthreport.org)

“The spouses that don't have the disease, they're going to cherish that moment, because they're going to see that same look that he or she gave them when they first got married.”

— Lakeisha Siren, Life enrichment coordinator (fortworthreport.org)

“Because of the situation, it means a lot to me. They've gone to a lot of trouble, and it's worth it. We really really enjoy coming here.”

— Eva Cox (fortworthreport.org)

“I just think it's neat to renew our vows and remember how much we love each other.”

— Paula Brussow (fortworthreport.org)

“We said 'I do,' and we still say 'I do'.”

— John Smith (fortworthreport.org)

The takeaway

This event demonstrates the power of love and community in supporting couples affected by dementia. By creating a meaningful ceremony to renew vows, the James L. West Center for Dementia Care Senior Day Program provided an opportunity for these couples to celebrate their enduring commitment, even as the disease progresses. This event highlights the importance of validating the love and caregiving that continues in the face of dementia.