Nothing could stop 93-year-old Gatera from being at his grandson Jeff Mugongo’s wedding in Phoenix, Arizona, not even a 40-hour journey from Rwanda.
Jeff got the ultimate surprise in November when his grandfather appeared on the porch, after layovers, missed flights, and hotel stays. The emotional reunion had Jeff in tears as they hugged, laughed, and shared words in Gatera’s native language. “I couldn’t control the tears that [were] coming out of my eyes. And he was like, ‘Don’t cry,’ ” Jeff recalled.
Even jet lag couldn’t slow down Grandpa, who stole the spotlight on the dance floor to “Proud Mary,” showing off moves that left everyone cheering. Jeff said the moment reminded him of the importance of showing up for family and the enduring strength of grandparents’ love.
“Moments that only happen once are gifts and grace we never deserve,” Jeff wrote on Instagram.
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