Rich and I (Char) met in the spring of 2022, just weeks after I was released from the hospital. I had been hospitalized for severe anemia caused by fibroid tumors, one of which led to life-threatening blood loss. After an emergency, life-saving surgery, I found myself reflecting deeply on my life and relationships. In a moment of clarity (or perhaps stubborn determination), I said, “I never want to experience anything like this alone again.” So, while I should have been resting and recuperating, I impulsively downloaded a dating app. And wouldn’t you know it—the first man I met was Rich.

From our very first conversation, it felt like we had known each other forever. We spent the next week talking on the phone for hours, texting nonstop, and finally meeting for our first date. It was perfect in its simplicity: a quick bite, bowling, and arcade games. Both of us are big kids at heart, so naturally, we bonded over our shared love of playful competition. I talked endless smack about how I’d dominate, but Rich—kind yet competitive—made sure I didn’t win anything. (He still reminds me of the scores to this day, while I conveniently “misremember” them.)

We quickly realized we were both nostalgic 90s kids, drawn to throwback films, music, and memories that made us feel like long-lost best friends. But despite the sparks, I wasn’t fully recovered from my illness and needed time to heal—physically and emotionally. We decided to part ways, unsure if we’d see each other again.

Fast forward to October 2022, and fate (or maybe that hopeless romantic streak in both of us) brought us back together. From the moment we reconnected, we’ve been inseparable. Rich and I share a bond that’s hard to put into words. We’re kindred spirits with the same quirky sense of humor, a love for deep conversations, and a hunger to explore the world and ourselves.

Both of us grew up facing early challenges that shook our sense of belonging. But through it all, we each held onto the quiet hope that somewhere out there, a kindred soul was waiting to connect. It turns out, that hope wasn’t misplaced. Our journey together has been filled with love, grace, connection, and the incredible people who have shaped us along the way.

Our story has been shaped by the incredible people who have loved and supported us along the way. One of the most significant moments in our journey together was within the first year of our relationship when I (Char) had the honor of meeting Gail, Rich’s beloved grandmother. But to Rich, Gail was far more than just a grandmother—she was like another mother to him. Gail, alongside his mother Debi, helped raise Rich, guiding him with love, wisdom, and an unwavering belief in his potential. She was his closest relative, his rock, and her presence in his life was immeasurable.

When I met Gail, she was 90 years young, yet full of life and warmth. She quickly became one of the sweetest, smartest, and most fascinating people I’d ever known. Gail had an incredible way of making me feel like the most interesting person in the room, even as I was captivated by her own stories and insights. In the short time we had together, we formed a deep bond, sharing heartfelt conversations about life, love, and family.

One moment I’ll never forget was when Gail confided in me her concern for Rich. She expressed how much she loved him and how deeply she wanted him to have someone by his side when she was no longer here. She shared her relief and gratitude, knowing I was in his life. I promised her that Rich was in good hands and assured her that I wouldn’t leave him.

Losing Gail within that first year of our relationship was profoundly significant for Rich. She wasn’t just his grandmother—she was the person who had shaped him and loved him unconditionally. Her loss left a deep void in his life, but it also brought us closer together. I am so grateful I had the privilege of knowing Gail, even for a short time, and that I could offer her the reassurance that Rich wouldn’t be alone in this world. Her love, strength, and faith in our relationship continue to inspire us as we build our life together, carrying forward the legacy of her love.

For us, love isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, being yourself, and finding joy in the ordinary. It’s sharing laughs during movie nights, debating the “right” way to be a Christian, and supporting each other through life’s curveballs. In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, we’ve found a steady, comforting sense of home in one another.

So here we are, ready to celebrate the beautiful chaos that brought us together, with all of you by our side.