The deaf-blind spouse for the golden wedding renewed their wedding vows

On July 10, 2026, Olga and Franc Leskovec, both in their eighties, celebrated the 50th anniversary of their marriage in a unique way. The couple, who have been married for half a century, chose to renew their wedding vows in a ceremony entirely conducted in sign language, held at Grad Dvor. This special occasion was organized by the Slovenian Association of Deafblind People, DLAN, of which the couple is a member. The event aimed to highlight the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with deafblindness while celebrating their enduring relationship. The ceremony took place in the castle's wedding chapel and included both a civil and a church renewal of vows. Given their inability to hear or see fully, Olga and Franc relied on personal assistants who translated the proceedings into sign language throughout the ceremony. These assistants also physically guided the couple during the event. Father Bogdan Knavs led the church portion of the ceremony, emphasizing the need for continuous effort in relationships and mutual gratitude. He encouraged attendees to draw inspiration from the couple’s example, reminding them to remain faithful to the promises they had made. During the vow renewal, the couple exchanged right hands, reaffirming their commitment to each other through all circumstances—both good and bad, in health and illness—and promising to love and respect one another throughout their lives. Afterward, members of the association congratulated the couple with a gesture equivalent to applause and stomping of feet, a traditional form of celebration among the deafblind community. Media representatives were invited to attend the event, aiming to raise awareness about the sign language used by the deafblind population and how they can access information through touch, proximity, or sign language despite physical limitations. Slovenia became the first country in the world to include the sign language of the deafblind in its constitution in 2021. Last year, lawmakers unanimously passed a law ensuring the linguistic rights of individuals with deafblindness as outlined in the constitution. This legal framework supports the inclusion of such individuals in society and ensures their ability to communicate effectively. Olga and Franc met in Koper and have lived together in Logatec ever since. Franc has been deaf since birth and gradually lost his sight over time, currently seeing very little. Olga lost her hearing in childhood and progressively went blind. Despite these challenges, the two have maintained a strong bond over the past five decades. They continue to hold hands daily and engage in religious practices together. Their shared creativity also plays a significant role in their lives. Olga creates art using paper pieces prepared by Franc, crafting intricate sculptures of fish and various objects. This artistic collaboration brings joy and meaning to their lives. According to Simona Gerenčer, the general secretary of the association, the couple's relationship is marked by patience, mutual care, and occasional disagreements, all of which are experienced through physical contact. She described witnessing the couple's satisfaction throughout the event as the most important aspect of the experience, highlighting the positive impact it had on everyone present. The event served as a reminder of the beauty and strength found in inclusive communities and the value of recognizing and respecting diverse forms of communication and expression.