Will said from the start that I was his best birthday gift. We met online on his birthday and instantly connected but tried to take it slowly. Fun times and deep conversations quickly became something real: a love built on respect, curiosity, and compassion. That love has been tested — long distance and health scares on both sides — and only grows stronger. Six months in, a Disney World trip with Will's dad and stepmom sealed it. We just got engaged and know the best is yet to come.

On our second Disney trip, Will designed matching family t-shirts featuring my beloved silly cheese-loving mouse, Gus Gus from Cinderella. At dinner, our server noticed our shirts and excitedly told us about a new Gus Gus plush in the park. Growing up Jewish, I'd never celebrated Christmas until Will gave me that joy — now our Christmas Gus Gus sits as the star atop our "tree," which is really our balcony door decorated with presents, and my grandmother's menorah shining beside it.

I lost my mom at 13 (on 10/9/96, 30 years ago), my dad at 25, and my grandmother at 27. I've raised myself and built a wonderful life, wondering if I'd ever find my person (I'm 43, Will is 34). My 1BR/1BA condo, my job, friends, and community are the life I built and cherish. $20,000 would renovate my condo for two instead of one, as we move Will's mom nearby (his dad and stepmom are already nearby). Three parents and the love of my life, plus a huge extended family. We are so lucky in love!