An American Love Story

Once upon a time there was a boy who fell in love with a girl. His name was Carl, and his love Peoria. Carl was an athlete, and Peoria a cheerleader. It seemed perfect for them to be a couple. She proudly cheered for him on the sidelines as he ran down the football field. He carried her books to class, and she carried his heart. To friends their names became one and the same. For if you said Carl, it was usually followed by an “and”, and then Peoria. And as Carl grew into a man and Peoria into a women, their love continued to grow. Like all love stories, they were married. While the years weren’t perfect, they were always together – Carl and Peoria. Always committed. Always loving. And as their love grew, their family grew. Along the way they had five children.

Life tried repeatedly to test their love. Carl thought the toughest test was when together they overcame breast cancer. Peoria the fighter, and him the supporter. Together they are survivors. Nine years have passed since the surgery to remove the disease. Nine more years for their love to grow. Nine more years to be Carl and Peoria.

At the end of January 2017, another test has fallen their way. Peoria once again has to be the fighter. She is now fighting to live after suffering a massive brain aneurysm. And just as he has been for the last 30 plus years, Carl is by her side.

So many of us have enjoyed just being able to watch their love story from the sidelines. Some of us are in their inner circle of family and close friends, and have been able to get a closer look.

For all of us, it has been a pleasure to be a part of, for it makes us hopeful to know a love like this does exist.

During this time, family and friends have all expressed the desire to help, to do “something,” to mentally or physically hug them both….and most of all to pray to God for divine healing of Peoria and strength for Carl.

This Go Fund Me campaign is your opportunity to do just that. By giving, whatever you are able to give, you will show your love to Carl and Peoria, their kids, and their extended family. And you will be able to love on a couple that has shown the world that true love does exist.