A Spooky Way to Renew Your Vows
By: Andrew Barra WMBD/WYZZ-TV
Updated: July 8, 2012
The old mental hospital in Bartonville has been used a lot since it closed.
However it's never been the scene of a wedding.
That was until today.
WMBD's Andrew Barra tells us about a couple who says they can't imagine renewing their vows anywhere else.
The Bartonville State Hospital is a hotspot for paranormal investigators, including Rob Conover.
Rob Conover says, "I'm like everyone else, I snuck in here seventeen years ago...and I just love this building."
So for him and his wife Alesia, it seemed like the perfect place.....to renew their wedding vows.
Rob says, "It was actually her idea. She said "I want to renew my vows" I was all for it. Then, she said, 'I want to do it at Bartonville'."
Its a place Rob has spent much time in, and holds a spot in their hearts. The two have been married for over twenty five years. Which is around the time Rob started working on paranormal cases.
Alesia Conover says, "Early on in our marriage, he started getting involved with this. It was hard at first to accept. It was hard for him to accept. It has been interesting to say the least."
However, the last few years have been hard for the two. In December of 20-10, Alesia was diagnosed with Carcinoid cancer.
Rob says, "Her cancer and everything cost us a lot. It was worth every penny, because we realize its not material things that matter anymore. Its this right here."
Which is why they decided to re-new their vows Saturday, in front of family and friends.
Rob says, "These are our friends and loved ones...Its just amazing they come out in this weather for us. You cant say thank you enough."
However, this is as close as Alesia wants to get to the building.
Rob says, "I couldn't get her in that building if I wanted to. No way."
Alesia says, "I just sit home and hear the stories. I'm a chicken."
But for Rob - its a sacred place - a perfect spot to say "I-do".
Alesia is currently in treatment for her cancer.
She is going through chemotherapy.
As for a honeymoon... It'll be spent with family and friends... not at the hospital.
