Husband and wife Tommy and Maryanne Pilling, the first couple with Down Syndrome to get married in the United Kingdom, have just celebrated almost a quarter of a century of married life. While it can be challenging to confront ableism and manage a genetic disorder at the same time, the couple has surged forward through all the criticism. They got married to each other at a church in Essex over two decades ago—and haven't looked back since. They first met at a day center and dated for about a year and a half before Tommy, now 61 years old, popped the question, according to The Independent.
Maryanne's sister Lindi Newman manages the page, which features photographs of the happy couple throughout their lives together. Through their heartwarming relationship, they've been able to prove all the naysayers wrong. Actually, so many people had once confided in Maryanne's mother that allowing the two to get married would be a bad idea. Needless to say, the critics stand duly corrected.
Though the couple may not be your average wedded partners, Lindi affirmed that they provide parents with children who have Down Syndrome some much-needed motivation and inspiration. Many parents of differently-abled children worry about whether their kids will ever be able to lead "normal" lives, but Maryanne and Tommy have proven that normal does not always have to look so normal, after all.
A glance at the comments section on any of their photos is enough evidence of Lindi's claims. On their wedding anniversary, one person posted, "Congratulations on your wedding anniversary. What a lovely and happy couple they look, they are blessed they found each other.
COMMENTS