Prepare to be touched by a beautiful love story that’s been warming hearts online. For an incredible 39 years, 78-year-old Fred Thompson has been reviving the enchantment of his first Valentine’s Day with his beloved wife, 75-year-old Mary Thompson. This charming tradition has grown even more meaningful as Mary faces the challenges of dementia.
Fred’s journey with Mary began when he knocked on her door while selling insurance in 1980. Right before their initial Valentine’s Day celebration, he inquired whether she enjoyed chocolate. Naturally, Mary responded with an enthusiastic “of course!” and promptly directed him to the best place in town for dark chocolate cremes from a local favorite known as Sweet Treats, a cherished establishment in their hometown of Santa Fe.
Being the attentive husband he is, Fred took her advice and purchased her favorite chocolates. The shopkeeper suggested he keep the box and bring it back for refills each year, a suggestion Fred embraced wholeheartedly. Thus, he has been refilling that same red heart-shaped box for nearly four decades. Isn’t that just the sweetest?
This endearing ritual has taken on new significance in recent years, as Mary has struggled with her memory. In an interview with a local news outlet, Mary expressed her gratitude, saying, “I know I’m lucky. That’s why I’m keeping him around. He’s a keeper!” She added, “I married him long ago and my love for him is as strong today as it ever was.”
The couple has faced considerable challenges since Mary was diagnosed with dementia. Fred shared the deep emotional toll it has taken on him, revealing, “There were days when she couldn’t write, talk, or even care for herself. I had to make the heart-wrenching decision to move her into an assisted living facility in 2016, and that was the saddest day of my life.”
Statistics show that 1 in 6 women and 1 in 10 men over 55 will develop dementia, according to the Institute for Dementia Research and Prevention. Yet, Fred and Mary’s story resonates with anyone who appreciates enduring love.
As Fred cherishes their time together, he reflects on the importance of making every moment count. He poignantly remarks, “She may forget me someday, so it’s vital to enjoy every minute we have while she still remembers.”
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In summary, Fred and Mary’s remarkable Valentine’s Day tradition showcases the power of love and commitment, even amidst life’s challenges. Their story reminds us all to treasure the moments we have with our loved ones.
Keyphrase: Valentine’s Day tradition
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