You’ve been my greatest and most unexpected surprise. Who would’ve thought that someone so much younger than me could become my rock during the hardest chapter of my life?

You stood by me when everyone else either walked away or kept their distance. You’ve reminded me time and again that I am not hard to love. I’m deeply grateful for your patience and the strength it takes to deal with my skepticism and stubbornness.

Either you’re the strongest person I’ve ever met — or a glutton for punishment — because I’ve given you plenty of reasons to walk away, yet you never have.

Thank you for your unwavering strength, wisdom, courage, and patience. Wherever the road takes us from here, I hope you will always remain a big, cherished part of my life.