We met at age 5, & my mom joked one of us (twins) would marry Anthony. He joined band & MESA just to be near me, even sat beside me on a trip & told his best friend, “I’m going to marry that girl” at 14. After a mix-up with my twin (friend asked wrong twin out), 3 more yrs to build courage, & a slow-burn romance, he won me over. From dances to heartbreak & miracles, our love hasn’t been perfect—but it’s real, enduring, & always my favorite story.

Our favorite memory as a couple is from this past year. After 27 years together, life slowed down, and in the quiet of hospital rooms and long, hard days, we found each other again. Through fear and uncertainty, we talked, laughed, and leaned on each other. We realized we still truly enjoy each other’s company. It wasn’t easy, but the love, support, and prayers carried us—and reminded us that even after all this time, we’re still each other’s person.

If I won $20,000, I’d use it toward a new vehicle. After spending over two months traveling to and from a hospital more than three hours away—and still making regular trips—my van is barely holding on. A vacation sounds amazing, but right now, a reliable car is what we truly need.