Despite the disbelievers and doubters, in July 1995 a special couple said “I do”. There were many that thought that they didn’t have a hope of a happy future together, or could even stay a married couple.
Maryanne and Tommy Pilling defied the odds and are now a wonderful example of love and how the trueness of love really does stand the test of time, defying all the people that predicted it wouldn’t last, years ago, and wouldn’t support them.
After a whopping 22 years after they were married, Tommy and Maryanne are still together and live next to Maryanne’s mom in Essex, her sister lives just a few houses down the road and the happy couple don’t even argue!
What seems like a short time ago, this amazing marriage nearly didn’t come true. Tommy 59, and Maryanne 46, have overcome many challenges in their lives, both having dealt with a share of rude, mean people.
Their stories of love began at a local training centre for people with learning difficulties. Its was so cute how sweet and adorable their relationship was. After just 18 months of dating each other, Tommy knew that Maryanne was his one and only love.
Tommy proposed with a toy ring bought from a vending machine, but only after he had first asked permission to marry her from her mom!
They received their blessing from Maryanne’s mom, but regretfully many others didn’t approve.
Linda Newman, Maryanne’s sister, had told everyone that their mom received “a lot of flak” for supporting them in their marriage. Thinking about how many marriages today end in divorce, theirs is definitely a love story that has stood the tests of time, without a doubt.
The relationship is pure because they don’t understand emotions of hate, their beautiful church ceremony, surrounded by friends and family showed them the love they received.
Tommy went to the jewelry shop with Maryanne’s mom where she helped buy a “proper ring”, said Linda. She told the New York Post that ever since she was a little girl, Maryanne dreamed of having a big white wedding. “That’s exactly what she had. It was a beautiful day.
Holding hands strolling down the street that make a great statement, but still some people stare, assuming that people with down syndrome and learning difficulties shouldn’t get married.
Also though, there are many well wishers who are inspired, especially people with down syndrome children, we hope that they can also fall in love and live happy lives too!
Just by looking at their wedding photos you can really tell that they share a deep and meaningful relationship right to this current day, Linda has shared their stories on Facebook and Instagram too!
They love one another dearly, respect one another and are completely honest.
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. Tommy and I never argue. I love my husband very much. He is my best friend.
