Connect How did your love story begin?

We met about 12 years ago in passing. We hung out and went our separate ways, as we were from different states. It was actually him that reached out and kept us in contact. We maintained a long distance friendship. In November of 2023, our friendship deepened, mostly due to him, again. Our conversations turned to us discussions. We decided to spend time together, though we hadn't seen each other in years. We've been together since seeing each other in January of 2024.

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

One moment that still stays with both of us happened before we were officially together. He was sick and alone in Memphis; I was in Chicago. He told me he wasn’t feeling well, and I sent him a care package through Walmart, just the basics to help him feel better. I didn’t say a word, just sent it. When it arrived, he called me in tears. That moment told him he was truly seen, cared for, and loved, in a way he hadn’t felt before.

What would you do with $20,000?

We are on a deeply personal journey to grow our family. Due to circumstances beyond our control, we’re unable to conceive naturally, and we’re now exploring assisted methods to help us realize our dream of having a child together. I have a daughter whom my partner loves and adores as his own. Still, he has never had the opportunity to experience fatherhood biologically. Becoming parents together is a dream that would mean the world to both of us. We’re committed, hopeful and filled with love.