Supporting Victoria and James: An Enduring Love Story 

For over 30 years, Victoria and James have shared a love story that defies conventions. They are currently supported at a Dungarvin residence in Shepherdsville, Kentucky (near Louisville).   

Victoria and James met in their early adult years and have been in a loving relationship ever since. Though they lived separately for all of their lives, their bond never wavered. Victoria, who had been with a Family Home Provider (FHP) for several years, found stability in that environment. There was just one thing missing…James.   

James, on the other hand, lived independently in an apartment supported by a different provider. Despite their separate living arrangements, they made their relationship work, with the full support of James’s sister, who serves as their guardian, and the Case Manager who has worked with them for the last eight years.  

Two years ago, James proposed to Victoria and the couple began dreaming of a life together as husband and wife. They envisioned a wedding on Valentine’s Day 2025—symbolic of the love they had nurtured for more than three decades. They dreamed of living together in a home where they could share their lives while maintaining some independence with separate bedrooms, a setup that best suited their unique needs. 

Their dream seemed unattainable until their Case Manager and guardian began advocating for them. When the Dungarvin Louisville Team heard about the couple’s story, the organization stepped in to explore ways to better support them. After months of effort, Dungarvin identified a staffed residence with two available rooms. However, the home required ADA modifications to accommodate James’s needs, including an accessible bathroom as well as widening the doors in both bedrooms. 

With the support and approval of Dungarvin Kentucky leaders, modifications were made to the home and Victoria and James finally moved into their new home a few months ago. They were thrilled to see their rooms decorated in their favorite colors—James’s in dark blue and Victoria’s in pink. For the first time in their lives, they were able to live together as a couple, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and shared moments. 

Living together has brought a new level of joy to Victoria and James. Victoria loves helping prepare dinner and the couple enjoys weekly date nights, from movies to dinners or simply riding around town. They are grateful for the opportunity to finally live together and feel more connected than ever. 

However, their dream of a Valentine’s Day wedding recently hit a heartbreaking roadblock. Due to financial regulations, getting married would result in a loss of over $100 per month for each of their benefits—a significant decrease for the couple already living on a fixed income. It was a devastating realization for a couple who have waited so long to make their union official. 

Despite this setback, Victoria and James remain determined to celebrate their love. With the support of their guardian, Case Manager, and staff, they have decided to hold a wedding and reception without legally formalizing their marriage to avoid financial penalties. They remain focused to make their Valentine’s Day wedding as memorable as ever! 

Unfortunately, their financial situation presents another challenge. The couple used much of their savings to purchase personal items and necessities for their new home, leaving little to invest in a wedding. Victoria dreams of the perfect dress and decorations, while James quietly hopes to give his fiancée the wedding she deserves.  

This is where their community has stepped up, again. James and Victoria’s story is one of hope, love, and resilience. The couple’s Case Manager started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for their wedding and reception, but the couple are hopeful for support from the community who may be moved by their story. 

Victoria and James have only ever wanted a life together that reflects their love and commitment—and a wedding filled with joy, laughter, and the start of their next chapter together. Their story proves that love truly conquers all! 

If you’d like to support the couple, leave a Comment below or send an email of congratulations to svandroff@dungarvin.com.