How did your love story begin?

Our love story began simply-two people getting to know each other. We were each searching for the right person to spend our lives with, and at times we wondered if it would ever happen. One of us was in California, the other in Ilinois, but distance couldn’t keep us apart. We started out as good friends, and our connection grew deeper through handwritten letters-they made everything more intimate and personal, giving us time to really know each other’s hearts. The love has only blossomed.

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

One of our favorite memories as a couple will always be our wedding day. It was small and intimate, held right in the heart of the Missouri Botanical Gardens. Surrounded by blooming flowers, we promised each other forever. It felt like nature itself was celebrating with us-every blossom signifying the start of a beautiful life together. We’ll never forget that day or the love that’s only grown since.

What would you do with $20,000?

With $20k, we would have the jump start we need for the second half of our lives. Ashley’s journey- going completely deaf in her right ear and being diagnosed with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease-has brought challenges, but it’s also show us how precious every moment together truly is. This support would help us create new adventures and make memories that celebrate how far we’ve come and how much we still have to look forward to-together.