We met working for my ex-husband’s toxic company. Through chaos, neglect, and abuse, Allen was my safe place—quietly helping behind the scenes. When my ex turned violent, Allen stepped in without hesitation. We were both raising kids, both surviving toxic divorces, and found real love, trust, support, laughter, and peace in each other. What began in the dark became the most beautiful light.

Hiking the Blue Ridge, we found a hidden waterfall by basically free-climbing a ravine like Indiana Jones—him guiding my 4'9" self the whole way. Another favorite? The time I had a sinus infection, forgot who he was, and screamed that he kidnapped me in our own driveway. Or maybe it’s the dolphins circling our kayak—he let me enjoy the magic, never telling me the kayak was slowly sinking. Every memory with him feels like the best one.

With four teenagers, we’d pay off medical and household debt, make much-needed home repairs like sealing drafty windows, and finally breathe a little easier when it comes to our grocery bill for a family of six. This would be a chance to catch up, reset, and give our kids the comfort and stability they deserve.