A couple in North Carolina, Rhonda Chislaghi and Eric Barnwell, who are both first responders, had to postpone their wedding plans due to Hurricane Helene. The hurricane struck western North Carolina and devastated the area, causing the couple to decide to stay and assist with disaster recovery efforts instead of traveling for their wedding. Despite this setback, they decided to have a commitment ceremony on their original wedding day, which was supposed to take place in Glacier National Park. They exchanged vows and rings in a special ceremony that was made possible by some caring individuals who helped make their day in the midst of chaos.
Rhonda Chislaghi and Eric Barnwell have been serving as first responders for over 30 years, with Chislaghi volunteering for the Henderson County Rescue Squad and Barnwell being a retired division chief for the Skyland Fire Department. They both felt it was important to stay and help their community during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, leading to the decision to postpone their wedding plans. Despite the challenges they faced, the couple remained determined to get married and eventually reschedule their nuptials for a later date.
Chislaghi mentioned that they had known each other for over twenty years and started their relationship in February. By July, they were engaged and had set a wedding date for October 2nd. Chislaghi’s determination to stick to her original wedding date paid off when a coworker at Barnwell’s station offered to make their ceremony dreams come true. With the help of a worker from Buncombe County Emergency Management and a chaplain, the couple was able to have a heartfelt ceremony amid the chaos and devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
In the midst of the hurricane recovery efforts, Chislaghi and Barnwell recognized the traumatic experiences that first responders were going through and the impact it would have on them. They witnessed the selflessness and dedication of their colleagues, who were working tirelessly to help those affected by Hurricane Helene. Despite the challenges and heartbreak they witnessed, the couple remained grateful for the support they received and were focused on resuming their wedding plans once the immediate crisis had passed.
Chislaghi expressed her gratitude for everyone who supported them during their impromptu ceremony and acknowledged the deep impact the hurricane had on the community. She emphasized the resilience and strength of the people affected by the storm and the lasting effects it would have on first responders who witnessed the devastation firsthand. The couple still plans to have their wedding at Glacier National Park, with hopes of rescheduling their nuptials for a later date in October or November.
Hurricane Helene caused significant damage and loss of life in the Southeast, killing at least 232 people and leaving hundreds more unaccounted for. Despite the devastation caused by the storm, stories of resilience and love like that of Rhonda Chislaghi and Eric Barnwell remind us of the importance of community, support, and love in the face of adversity. The newlyweds hope to move forward with their wedding plans while continuing to support their community in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
