By:
Lynn Sears

It may not have been the wedding of the year internationally, but in Monterrey, Mexico, it definitely was. Fourteen camera crews and scores of print photographers gathered in front of the Club de Leones as Manuel Uribe, once the fattest man on earth, married his girlfriend, Claudia.

Six hundred people turned out to celebrate the occasion, and the doctors who have helped him lose weight and regain his health were on hand to wish him the best on this very moving day.

Barry and I were delighted when Manuel asked us to be part of the ceremony, and I had hoped to share many pictures with you of the wedding. Unfortunately, all cameras were confiscated at the door because Manuel had signed an exclusive contract with a Mexican magazine for the wedding pictures. Although I hope latch on to more pictures in the next couple of days, the pictures I send you today will have to be in the form of words.

A flatbed truck carried Manual from his house to the club. His bed was draped with white silk and decorated with orange and yellow roses. He wore a white silk shirt with a rose boutonnière.

Claudia was absolutely beautiful in a strapless dress with beaded front and a long train as she descended a winding staircase as the Wedding March boomed through the hall.

When she reached Manuel, there were tears of joy in his eyes, and they sang “Me Alcanza La Vida” to each other.

In Mexico there are two wedding ceremonies, first a civil and then a religious. While the civil ceremony is the most important legally, the religious ceremony is the most moving.

First the rings are presented to the bride and groom. Barry and I conducted the bow ceremony, which ties a couple together. Coins are given out, which symbolize a promise to take care of one another. A Bible is then presented. No matter what problem, argument or decision a couple must make, it should be resolved by going to the Bible.

The party went on until well after 2 a.m. with dinner and dancing. And more dancing.

“He’s an inspiration and hope to millions of individuals, showing that they can change their lives just as Manuel has,” Barry said. “So not only is this a glorious day for Manuel but a day of great hope and aspiration for others.”