Connect How did your love story begin?

Before the world shut down in 2020, our story was just beginning. I was in Puerto Rico on a humanitarian mission, and she was living in the U.S. Virgin Islands. We matched on a dating app and spent two weeks talking for hours every day. We felt an instant connection, and she had planned a trip to Puerto Rico so we could finally meet. Then COVID changed everything. Her trip was canceled as the world began shutting down. She was disappointed, and so was I.

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

One favorite memory was celebrating Amanda's 36th birthday in the California Redwoods. It was more than just a vacation—it was one of the first times we were able to truly slow down, unplug, and simply enjoy being together without the demands of everyday life. The Redwoods had been on Amanda's bucket list for years, so getting to experience that moment with her made the trip incredibly special. Watching her stand beneath those ancient giants, seeing the joy and awe on her face, was special.

What would you do with $20,000?

Winning $20,000 allow us to begin our marriage with freedom instead of financial stress. We would pay off the remaining expenses from our wedding so we could focus on building our future together rather than paying for our past. Allowing us to fully enjoy our honeymoon in Greece—a trip we've dreamed about as our first adventure as wife and wife. More than a vacation, it would be a chance to celebrate everything we've overcome to get here and create memories that will stay with us for a lifetime.