How did your love story begin?

I was working as a Director of Rehab and hired Gina for a position as an OT. There was an instant connection from the time of the interview yet I was married to a man, and she was engaged to a woman. Our friendship grew as our toxic relationships dwindled. Our connection showed us what we deserved and gave us the strength to walk away and find strength and happiness in ourselves and then as a couple. We found each other at the right time to build a future together filled with love and hope.

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

Gina gave me a trip to Cancun for my 51st birthday. It was my first time out of the country and first time anyone loved me enough to plan a vacation for me. Our welcome made us chuckle as the card read Mr & Mrs Leymeister. Many memories of fun, love, laughter as we were accepted without judgement for being a gay couple and for being a couple with a 20 year age difference. One of the best compliments and memories was a random stranger coming up to us and saying “I love your love”.

What would you do with $20,000?

We would use money as a down payment for a home together. We each had our own houses that we lost in my divorce and her broken engagement. Our current rental is our home filled with love and joy. No toxicity. But - our own home together is a dream we want to fulfill quickly. We deserve our safe space for us and my two daughters to live trauma free. To make our own true home. A symbol of our pure love and instant connection.