Our journey together began over three decades ago, built on a foundation of faith, love, and a deep commitment to serving others. When I met my husband, I knew our connection was something special. Over the years, our shared purpose has only strengthened our bond, allowing us to grow together in ways I never could have imagined. 

Looking back, I’m humbled by all we’ve been able to accomplish. Over the past 25 years, through our organizations, the National Center for Urban Solutions, NCUS TEC, and the African American Male Wellness Agency, we have raised over $50 million to support communities in need. Our work has taken us to more than 20 cities, where we’ve been blessed to touch the lives of millions. It has never been about numbers for us. It has always been about people. Every city, every family, every individual we’ve been able to help is a testament to the power of faith and service. 

Balancing our work with our marriage has been a journey of intentionality. We have found a beautiful rhythm, rooted in mutual respect and the unwavering belief that God brought us together for a reason. We work, live, and worship side by side, but we also understand the importance of nurturing our individual needs. Every year, we take a trip together to reconnect and recharge, and we also allow space for personal reflection through separate retreats. In addition to focusing on our relationship, we prioritize time with our five adult children, making memories through family vacations and quality time together. 

Community outreach has played a profound role in shaping our family. Our children, now 25, 29, 41, 46, and 47, have grown up witnessing the impact of service. It has opened their hearts to people from all walks of life, given them opportunities to travel, and instilled in them a deep passion for helping others. No matter where they are, they carry that spirit with them, always looking for ways to uplift urban communities and be a force for change. 

Through the joys and successes, we’ve also faced our share of trials. Twice, my husband was diagnosed with cancer. Each time, the fear crept in, and I found myself questioning why we were being tested in such a painful way. There were nights I cried out to God, asking why He would allow such hardship in our lives. But even in those darkest moments, my faith never wavered. 

 

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I often thought of my mother, who cared for my father with such strength and grace. At the time, I didn’t realize how much her example would shape me. Watching her love him through sickness and health became my blueprint for how to walk through this journey with my own husband. I leaned on my faith, trusting that God would see us through. And He did. 

I won’t say it was easy. There were moments when exhaustion and fear threatened to overwhelm me. But I knew my husband needed me to be strong, just as I needed him to keep fighting. We faced it together, hand in hand, trusting that love, our love, was more powerful than any diagnosis. 

Despite all the challenges, we have never lost sight of our purpose. While some executive orders have changed policies regarding disability rights, our organization remains steadfast in its mission. Our focus has always been on uplifting others, and we will continue to do that, no matter what obstacles come our way. 

As I reflect on our life together, I feel nothing but gratitude. Loving my husband through sickness and health, through triumphs and hardships, has been the greatest privilege of my life. Our story is not just about the work we’ve done or the money we’ve raised. It is about faith, perseverance, and the power of love to sustain us through it all. We still have so much more to do, so many more lives to touch. And as long as we have breath in our bodies, we will continue this journey together.