Facing Cancer, Mall Of America Couple To Renew Vows

Nearly 20 years ago, David Weinlicktook out an ad in a local newspaper looking for a bride. He promised to allow 40 of his closest friends choose her and then marry her, all in the same day. Hours later, David and Elizabeth Runze said “I do” in front of thousands of guests at Mall of America on June 13, 1998.

Nineteen years later, after having four children, they are set to renew their vows this Friday, Aug. 18 at the Mall of America's rotunda. Tragedy will play background to the celebration, however. Dave was recently diagnosed with cancer, and it's not known how much time he has left.

The disturbing news was the catalyst for the couple to renew their vows, back where it all began.

The ceremony will take place Friday morning at 11:30 a.m.

Photo credit: In this June 13, 1998 file photo, David Weinlick and Elizabeth Runze speak to the audience after Runze was picked to be Weinlick's bride at Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. Weinlick's family and friends picked Runze from a group of 23 possible brides less than two hours before the wedding. The Minnesota couple who began their life together through an arranged marriage nearly 20 years ago are about to renew their vows. The ceremony on Friday, Aug. 18, 2017 will again be at the Mall of America. (AP Photo/Scott Cohen, File)