Jason and Laurie Epeneter: A love born of loss is one that lasts

Jason and Laurie first met late in January 2009. His grandmother had been battling liver and pancreatic cancer, and Jason’s family had requested a hospice care consult from Franciscan hospice. Laurie met his family early the following week to discuss the best plan of care for his grandmother.

Laurie made a positive and lasting impression on everyone that day, improving the comfort and quality of life for grandma over the remaining weeks of her life. About one month after grandma passed away, grandpa had the desire to play Cupid. He called Jason to say, “You know, I’ve been thinking a lot about Laurie and how the two of you would make a great couple. Would you mind if I call her to let her know that I have two tickets for you both to see ‘Hello, Dolly!’ at the Paramount Theatre next week?” Jason responded by saying, “I’ve been thinking a lot about her, too! That sounds great and thank you much!”

Laurie and Jason spoke for a short time on the phone and subsequently went out on a brief dinner date five days before the “theater date” to ensure they were a great fit for each other. As it turns out, they were an amazing fit and knew instantly they were meant to be together. Jason proposed a few months later and they were married exactly seven months after their first date – on what would have been the 65th wedding anniversary of grandpa and grandma. Their encounter was certainly divine intervention, God opening one door as another door closes and blessing them every day since then in countless ways. They recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary and have three wonderful children – Megan, Landon and Levi.

– Jason Epeneter