In a story that has captured the hearts of many online, a devoted husband has maintained a touching Valentine’s Day custom for his wife for 39 years. At 77, Greg Thompson has been recreating the romantic gestures he first shared with his wife, 74-year-old Mary Thompson, as they continue to navigate the challenges of her dementia diagnosis.
The Beginning of Their Love Story
The couple’s journey began in 1981 when Greg, then an insurance salesman, knocked on Mary’s door. Their love story blossomed, and it was during their first Valentine’s Day that Greg discovered Mary’s fondness for chocolate. “Of course, I love chocolate!” she exclaimed, directing him to a local favorite—dark chocolate cremes from Sweet Treats, a candy store that has been a beloved fixture in their community since the 1960s.
Being the attentive husband he is, Greg promptly secured a box of Mary’s favorite chocolates. The shopkeeper suggested he keep the box and return the following year for a refill at no extra charge. Greg embraced this idea wholeheartedly, and for nearly four decades, he has been refilling that same red heart-shaped box.
The Impact of Dementia
As Mary’s dementia has progressed, their tradition has taken on even deeper meaning. “I feel incredibly fortunate,” Mary shared with a local news outlet. “He’s a keeper. I married him years ago, and my love for him has only grown since.” Though Mary still recognizes her devoted husband, they have faced significant hurdles due to her condition. “There were times she couldn’t write, speak, or even take care of herself,” Greg recounted. “The day we had to place her in an assisted living facility in 2016 was one of the hardest moments of my life.”
Dementia affects approximately 1 in 6 women and 1 in 10 men over the age of 55, as reported by the Institute for Dementia Research and Prevention. However, the Thompsons’ story resonates beyond those affected by dementia; it is a universal tale of enduring love.
Embracing Every Moment
As Greg cherishes every moment with Mary, he emphasizes the importance of savoring time spent together. “She may forget who I am one day,” he reflected, “so it’s vital to enjoy every moment while she still remembers me.”
For those interested in exploring how home insemination can fit into their family planning, check out this informative article on artificial insemination kits or learn more about when implantation occurs after intercourse at intracervicalinsemination.com. Additionally, for questions regarding fertility insurance, this resource is invaluable.
A Heartfelt Reminder
In summary, Greg’s annual chocolate tradition is a heartfelt reminder of love’s resilience, especially in the face of adversity. As they continue to create memories together, they inspire many to cherish their relationships.