A love Story

The Love Story of Peter and Stephanie

21 year-old Stephanie Patterson was diagnosed with retinal blastoma at the age of 5 months, resulting in the physical loss of one eye and considerable sight damage to the other. Stephanie overcame this illness, only to develop five additional tumors throughout her young life; the most recent of which is currently being treated by her doctors through radiation and chemotherapy at UCSD's Thornton Hospital.

Stephanie met Peter Cook, also 21 and visually impaired, in blind school almost three years ago and they have been inseparable ever since. Stephanie now sees only shadows and heavily depends upon Peter for physical and emotional support, especially since the birth of one year-old Kayleb. Stephanie's courage, Peter's unwavering support, and their commitment and dedication to each other is the source of our inspiration in the creation of a beautiful wedding day - at no expense whatsoever to the couple or their families. The dream of giving Peter and Stephanie a day they will remember for the rest of their lives has become a reality due to the generosity and enthusiasm of so many. Plans for their wedding in the beautiful Spanish-style Rancho Bernardo Courtyard on October 22, 2006 are underway and near completion.
Special Thanks

Events by Design's owners and partners, John and Jessica Gillon, William O'Bannon, and Robin Pickett wish to express their appreciation to the many sponsors who have volunteered services or products as sponsors of Peter and Stephanie's wedding day. We approached many of our favorite wedding professionals based upon our knowledge of their quality of service and all instantly agreed to participate; many of whom did not even wait to hear the entire story!

We would also like to thank Nicole Reino of the San Diego Union Tribune, for taking such an interest in this story and recognizing its value. Covering this story will help considerably in our pursuit of contributions needed to finalize the very special day we have planned for Peter and Stephanie.
Monetary Donations Are Most Welcome and Much Needed

...to offset minimal expenses remaining, and not covered by the contributing wedding professionals. These include food and floral expenses to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for the caterers and florist, and hotel expenses for a honeymoon night. Any remaining funds will be given to Stephanie and Peter via Cashier's Check as a wedding gift. Contributors may also designate their donation be directed toward a specific expense.

Checks should be made payable to "Events by Design - Stephanie and Peter" and mailed to:

Events by Design, LLC
Attn: John Gillon
16935 West Bernardo Drive, Ste. 114
San Diego, CA 92127

A gift card with the names of all contributors will be presented to Peter and Stephanie, along with a check for any remaining fundraised monies, as a gift at the wedding reception.