Oklahoma Newlyweds On Road To Recovery After Near Fatal Crash During Honeymoon

Oklahoma newlyweds tested out the "in sickness and health" vow earlier on in their marriage than they expected.

Christina Layden and Chance Sistrunk said "I do" in November. While on their honeymoon, they were involved in a near fatal crash.

The couple joins us on the Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Porch with their love story and road to recovery.

Christina and Chance dated briefly in high school but reconnected after college in 2018. In 2019, they officially began dating.

They got engaged on January 16, 2023. It was just the two of them on a walk with their dog, Judge.

Image Provided By: Priscilla Kirkes Photography

The couple then got married on November 25, 2023, at Esperanza Ranch in Luther, OK.

Image Provided By: Priscilla Kirkes Photography

For their honeymoon, they went to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks in Utah, and Joshua Tree in California. They spent their time hiking and exploring the parks, as well as Palm Springs and San Diego.

But their honeymoon came to an abrupt end when they were involved in a serious crash.

“On December 5th, we were driving to the Palm Springs airport to finish our honeymoon. And shortly after getting on the road, a woman crossed the double yellow line into our lane and hit us head-on," Chance said.

Chance had severe abdominal bruising, damage to his ankle, and other scrapes and lacerations.

Christina suffered a broken femur, internal bleeding caused by multiple internal organ tears and lacerations, such as small and large intestines and liver, and a spinal compression fracture.

They were released on December 23, which was earlier than they anticipated.

“Our first Christmas as a married couple was much different than we expected but we were able to spend time with our families, which is all we wanted," Christina said.

Christina said she has had ups and downs mentally and physically during her recovery. She has to meet with several specialists for all of the injuries she sustained.

Chance and Christina have had to spend much of the new year apart. Chance works in Stillwater where they both live, but Christina is recovering in her hometown of McAlester. They said that has been the most challenging part as newlyweds.

They want everyone to remember the importance of wearing your seatbelt because that saved their lives.

They said they're thankful to not only their friends and family, but to everyone who showed us support, love and understanding. That includes a long list of hospital staff, first responders and other individuals who they credit for some part in saving our lives.

The couple said they are currently struggling with medical bills. CLICK HERE if you'd like to donate to help with the costs.