Andre and I were introduced by a mutual friend during a church event. He had a date that night and I was dateless. He stared at me the whole evening and kept smiling at me. All I could think was that this boy is cute, but I’m not interested in sharing. (I’m an only child! Lol!) Fast forward to the next day, when we spoke on the phone and later went out for a walk. We’ve been together ever since! About one year into our relationship, I was diagnosed with systemic lupus which affected my kidneys and joints primarily. Andre was there the day I was diagnosed and continues to be there for me and our family. He’s the cheerleader when I’m down; the nurse; protector and an awesome dad! Over the years, we’ve been blessed with two beautiful, intelligent and healthy daughters while lupus has reared its ugly head. Through chronic pain, hip replacements, dialysis, kidney transplant and endless hospital visits, doctors appointments, tests and even breast cancer; we’ve continued to love each other. Not every day is easy, but living with your best friend and committing to your relationship and family is the best.