Maryanne came into the world on May 17, 1971, while Tommy was born on March 21, 1958, a date now recognized around the globe as World Down Syndrome Day.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
I’m Maryanne’s sister, and for the past 16 years, I’ve helped care for them both. They each have Down syndrome, and their love story is truly one of a kind.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Maryanne faced many challenges growing up, including bullying so severe it led to a breakdown. With the encouragement and care of those around her, she slowly regained her confidence. In 1990, while working at a training center for individuals with disabilities, she crossed paths with Tommy.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
They bonded over their shared love of cooking, and soon their friendship turned into something deeper. A year and a half after they began seeing each other, Tommy went to my mom and asked if he could marry her.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
They wed in 1995 in a beautiful celebration with 250 guests. Maryanne looked like a princess in her gown, and Tommy wore a smart tailored suit. I was just seven, watching in awe, dreaming of a wedding like hers someday.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Three years later, they moved into their own apartment next to our mom’s house. Tommy had lost his parents young and lived in care from the age of 12, so we helped him adjust to a healthier lifestyle and taught him daily skills. They’ve needed support with many things, but they’ve always worked as a team.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Maryanne is caring, loving, sometimes stubborn — and completely devoted to Tommy. He, in turn, tells her “I love you” dozens of times a day. They walk hand in hand everywhere, spend every evening together, and take trips to places like the zoo, bowling, and even Disney, where I saw just how inseparable they are.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Five years ago, Tommy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Maryanne doesn’t fully understand the illness, but she helps him with everything from putting on shoes to climbing stairs. Some days are hard, especially when he forgets she’s his wife, but she never stops loving him.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
They’ve faced cruelty from strangers, like the time someone stole Tommy’s wallet. But the outpouring of kindness from our community and even strangers around the world, reminded us how loved they are.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Maryanne and Tommy can’t read or write, tell time, or manage money, but with the right help, they live happily and independently. They’ve renewed their vows twice, proving wrong those who once said their marriage wouldn’t last.
Courtesy of Lindi Newman
Now, after 29 years together, they are the longest-living married couple with Down syndrome. Their life is proof of their motto: anything is possible with love.
