How did your love story begin?

Our love story began in the summer of July 1989. I was a freshman, completely unaware of romance, and she was a confident junior with a radiant smile and auburn hair that left me speechless. From the moment I saw her, I was captivated. We started dating, young and full of hope, but life took a turn when I had to move out of state. Heartbroken, I returned months later with my grandmother’s blessing—drawn back by the connection we shared. That’s when our real journey began.

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

One of our favorite memories was when I returned home after moving out of state. I had no money, no family nearby—just a hope to be with her again. Connie and her family welcomed me back, gave me a place to belong, and helped me find an after-school job. It was a simple moment, but it meant everything. It showed me what love, support, and true partnership really looked like. That memory still reminds us both of the foundation our relationship was built on.

What would you do with $20,000?

With $20,000, we would pay down credit card debt that's built up from years of medical and household expenses. This would bring much-needed relief and help us begin saving for our dream of owning a home. It would also allow us to invest in our future—supporting Connie’s passion for art education and special needs students, and my work as a CTE instructor. This gift wouldn’t just change our finances—it would help us keep building the life we’ve fought so hard for.