Tony Cross, after waiting five years for a kidney transplant, married Cynthia McIntosh in a heartfelt hospital ceremony days after his successful surgery.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Anthony “Tony” Cross, 61, had spent five long years on dialysis, awaiting the call that would change his life. On March 6, 2025, that call finally came, and it was a moment he had eagerly anticipated.
Tony and his fiancée, Cynthia McIntosh, rushed to Texas Health Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital, and Cross underwent kidney transplant surgery the same day.
But the transplant was just the beginning of a new chapter for Cross.
During his recovery, he and his fiancée, Cynthia, 70, decided to take a leap of faith. The couple had planned to marry at a courthouse later that month, but after receiving a second chance at life, Tony couldn’t wait any longer.
“I was just tired of waiting. I love the woman,” Tony said. “Cynthia has been really supportive of me and everything I’ve been going through.”
Just four days after his surgery, Tony and Cynthia exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony at the hospital’s chapel, surrounded by caregivers, family, and friends.
“They were just planning to have the chaplain marry them in their hospital room, but we told them, ‘No Way! We are going to make it special!’” said Robyn Dye, administrator of the Kidney Transplant Program.
The wedding, a joyful surprise for the couple, featured a cake, flowers, decorations and even non-alcoholic sparkling wine to toast the new couple.
Marlonda McIntosh served as her grandmother’s maid of honor, while Cynthia’s daughter watched via video call from her home in Louisiana. Minister Ocielia Sprowl officiated the ceremony.
The newlyweds said they were touched by the impromptu ceremony.
“When I said we’re doing this in the hospital, I never have thought it would be the event that it just turned out to be,” Tony said following the wedding. “I appreciate you all.”
Tony said he was grateful for the life-saving transplant and emphasized the importance of organ donation, urging others to consider giving the gift of life.
“It teaches us that every day is precious, and that’s why we do kidney transplants,” said Dr. Eric Siskind, surgical director of the Kidney Transplant Program.
“You can save someone’s life, and I am so appreciative to whomever I got this kidney from,” Tony said.
The newlyweds, now looking forward to a healthy future together, are already planning to enjoy life’s adventures. Tony is teaching Cynthia how to ride so they can ride together with the Circle L Five Riding Club, Texas’ oldest Black riding club.
