Connect How did your love story begin?

We met more than a decade ago through the same circle of friends. At the time, we were both in other relationships, but we built a friendship that lasted for years. When life brought us back together and we were both single, the connection was instant. What started as friendship quickly became the kind of love you read about. We blended our families, got engaged, and never looked back. Through every challenge since, we've remained each other's greatest adventure.

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

After Joe's successful bone marrow transplant, we wanted to celebrate what mattered most: being together. We took our kids to see the ocean for the first time. Watching their excitement as they ran toward the waves, collected seashells, and made memories together was unforgettable. After everything we'd been through, that trip wasn't just a vacation—it was a reminder that joy still waits on the other side of hard times. It remains one of our happiest memories.

What would you do with $20,000?

First, we'd use it to help complete our family's move from New York to North Carolina. Joe relocated for his new career after earning his finance degree during leukemia treatment, and we're now working to join him. Any family that has moved knows how quickly expenses add up! Then we'd take our kids on another family adventure. After years of hospitals, treatments, recovery, and long-distance living, making new memories together would be the perfect way to celebrate this next chapter.