A Wedding in the Sky of Memories
Intan Syari – 26, a hospital financial whiz – decided to honor her now‑late fiancé Rio Nanda Pratama – 26, a friendly medical doctor – by tying the knot alone. The announcement blew the internet: she walked down the aisle on November 11th wearing the gown and hijab that his jokes had imagined her wearing if he didn’t show up.
The Original Plan
- They hired a wedding planner named “Adiela.”
- The big day was set for Nov 11, the very day Rio promised to return home.
- His promise? “If I don’t make it back by then, wear the dress, polish that face, pick a fresh white rose from Ms Sheila, and photo‑shoot – then send the snaps my way.”
The Whirlwind
On Oct 29, Lion Air Flight JT610 clipped the skies after only 13 minutes of take‑off from Jakarta on a route to Pangkal Pinang. Of the 189 souls aboard, Rio was among the casualties. Indonesia’s most deadly airborne tragedy since the 1997 Medan crash racked the nation.
What Intan Did
Undaunted, Intan mimicked Rio’s wish. She donned a white wedding dress, a matching hijab, a clutch of white roses, a ring, and a camera. The selfies took off in the comments, the “love in the clouds” post crackling with resounding cheers.
The Vows (and Giggles)
In a heartfelt Instagram tap‑through, Intan spun a tale of strength and smiles: “There’s a kind of sadness I can’t put into words, but I’m smiling for you. No mournin’. Just the strong, unwavering spirit you always preached.”
She also sent a sweet note to Rio’s sister: “Even though you’re not here, your sister helped me make your beautiful last wish happen. I know you’re smiling up there.”
Who Is She Anyway?
In a brief chat with The Straits Times, Intan revealed that she worked at the finances office of Bakti Timah hospital, while Rio was a doctor over at the same place. “He was so kind and always around to help patients, reminding me that nothing on Earth lasts forever,” she recalled.
Why It Matters
In a world where grief could feel like a thunderstorm, Intan’s wedding turned into a sunrise – a tribute to love, to imagination, and to the promise of a future beyond the clouds.
