Connect How did your love story begin?

We met through an online dating app…never realizing we lived just houses apart. After only two dates, the global pandemic forced us to choose: jump all in or go home. For safety, I moved in nearly full-time to protect us both. We quickly earned the nickname “the Covid Cuddlers,” finding peace in each other’s arms. What began quickly, and in a time of chaos, blossomed into a treasured relationship.

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

We don’t have a favorite memory because ours are nontraditional. While others may have pages of poetic photos from date nights and far-off getaways, ours live in hospital halls and doctor appointments; where deep breaths are taken, hands are held tight, and love shows up without question. Our intertwined strength paints its own kind of masterpiece. And watching Jason love Ava through her final days at 18 etched a forever memory on my heart.

What would you do with $20,000?

I’d begin by tackling the medical debt that’s piled up over years of treatments and procedures; something that’s mine to carry, but has touched every part of our lives. Next, I’d finally start building a bit of a safety net. Life’s handed us more storms than we ever expected, and even a small cushion would offer something we haven’t felt in a long time: peace of mind. I’d love to invest in something that brings light back into our everyday.