We were anatomy lab partners in college and Wendy was Joel's boss on the RA staff. There was a tremendous blushing incident when Wendy first practiced with a stethoscope and Joel thought that a shirt was simply unnecessary. And our first kiss was the night that I asked Joel to tell me all the nitty-gritty about the Navy accession physical. Fast forward 30 years... we have a combined 45 years serving in uniform, a family we love and now celebrating retirement as we choose: together.

The day Joel got orders to Guam he knew Wendy would have to choose between her besties (him and her 12 year-old retriever, Max), and who would 'win'. She stayed stateside not because of the dog, but because we were strong enough to weather the distance. We continue to create memories together. Snuggling on the couch and other unmentionable ways reminds us that being together is the unifying memory. We hold on to family (and Max, now 15!) so tightly as we have fought hard to be here, together.

Our newest chapter after military retirement: Wendy is leading a mission to help 1 million families build stronger relationships with food, body and especially each other. Her Family in Focus® programs build the critical social-emotional skills that prevent eating disorders at every size and age. The money will go directly to the scholarship fund for families of all financial backgrounds to access meaningful help without harm, and grow confidently together. Learn more: www.WendySchoferMD.com