This special love story defied all odds, many people were doubting the longevity of the relationship, But this couple shut them all and spent 22 years of blessed marriage.
Two decades ago, Maryanne and Tommy Pilling from The UK first met at a local training institute for people with learning disability. They liked each other and dated for around 18 months before Tommy popped the question and the couple went on to tie the knot at St Mary’s Church in Shoeburyness, Essex, in July 1995.
Since then, the happy couple received a wave of criticism, but that didn’t stop them from living a happy life together.
Maryanne’s sister, Lindi Newman said: ” the day Maryanne met Tommy, she came back home with the biggest smile on her face, she kept talking about him, and asked our parents if she can invites him to dinner”
Now, after 22 years, the couple (Maryanne, 45 and Tommy, 59) are still going strong with their marriage, The doubters were wrong after all.. A Facebook page created by Maryanne’s sister have gained more than 6,000 followers who are keeping up with the couple’s romance.
“My wedding was the best day of my life. I was shocked when Tommy proposed, but I didn’t have to think twice about saying yes,” Maryanne told The Express.
The society at the time of their weeding was so harsh on them, the newlyweds kept receiving a lot of hurtful comments and judgments, but they didn’t give this a lot of attention and only cared about each other. What an inspiring couple!
Lindi said: “When they walk down the street holding hands they make a statement but in a good way.”
“Some people stare, they assume people with Down’s syndrome and learning difficulties can’t get married.”
“But we also get so many lovely lovely messages from people who are inspired by their story.
“People worried about their own children or grandchildren with Down’s syndrome get hope from Maryanne and Tommy’s story.
“Hope that their children can also fall in love and live happily ever after.”
“Tommy and I never argue,” Maryanne said. “I love my husband very much. He is my best friend.”
Watch this video to get more glimpse on this amazing couple’s life together.
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