There are many people who get married despite the fact that critics may doubt their ability to stay married for the long term. This often happens when we get married quickly or perhaps we are young and people don’t think we are yet responsible enough for the bond.
In 1995, there was a young couple who also were doubted but they ended up getting married and they stayed married for 25 years. They also were the first couple with Down syndrome in the UK to become husband and wife.
These days, we hear about people who have Down syndrome getting married on a regular basis. At that time, however, it was unheard of and it was the first time in the world that a couple with Down syndrome said I do.
Just like any other disability, however, those with Down syndrome have the ability to beat the odds, and certainly, that is what Tommy and Maryanne Pilling did. In fact, they are an inspiration to many who wonder if they have what it takes.
Maryanne was born in 1971. Her mother, Linda Martin, provided her with a loving atmosphere at home and she also had a sister who loved her as well. There were still times, however, when she struggled in life and she was even rejected by her father.
Since she was raised in a loving household, however, she grew up to be a very loving woman. It was easy to see in her lively personality.
Tommy was born in 1958 and was an only child. When he was 12 years old, he became an orphan and he grew up in a care home in Essex. He did have delayed development because of a lack of a support system, and he didn’t care much for his physical appearance.
When the two of them met in 1990, they were working in a kitchen in a training home for disabled individuals. He was 32 and she was 19 at the time.
It was easy to see how Maryanne felt about Tommy because she would absolutely light up when she spoke about him. They shared a number of common interests, such as music, cooking, movies, and doing craftwork.
Tommy also loved Elvis Pressley and the two of them would dance together on a regular basis. He would also let her know how much he loved her, and eventually, the family got accustomed to having him around.
18 months after they started dating, he proposed to her and asked her mother for permission to marry her daughter. The mother didn’t hesitate, she gave her blessings right away.
Other people, however, were not quite so positive about the idea of the two of them getting married. Some said that she wasn’t ready for it and some even asked about their sex life.
Despite the fact that they were criticized openly, they got married in 1995. 250 people came to the wedding, which was a fairytale for them.
They lived together with her family for seven years before moving into their own apartment next door. Her sister also moved along with them.
They have a very strong bond because he listens carefully when she speaks. There is never any type of hidden agenda and they love each other with their whole hearts.
Unfortunately, Tommy was hospitalized in 2020 after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and then got COVID. Due to his declining health, he passed away. That was on January 1, 2021.
When the news was broken to her, she seemed to understand but still was a little confused about the situation. We are just glad that they had almost 30 years together, and they loved each other till the end.
7 Symptoms That Can Be Caused by Stress
Stress is a part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can take a serious toll on both mental and physical health. Many people don’t realize that stress can manifest in the body, causing symptoms that may seem unrelated. If you’ve been feeling off lately, stress could be the reason.
Let’s dive into seven common symptoms of stress and how they impact your health.
1. Tense Muscles: Carrying Stress in Your Body
Do you feel constant tightness in your neck, shoulders, or back? Stress causes muscle tension, leading to aches, stiffness, and even jaw clenching. Over time, this can result in chronic pain or tension headaches.
What helps?
- Stretching, yoga, and massage
- Deep breathing exercises
- Heat therapy (warm showers or heating pads)
2. Headaches: The Pressure in Your Head
Stress is a major trigger for tension headaches, which feel like a tight band around your head. It can also worsen migraines.
How to prevent it?
- Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine overload
- Take breaks during work and relax your muscles
- Practice meditation or mindfulness
Video : This is why anxiety gives you SO many strange symptoms
3. Digestive Issues: When Stress Hits Your Gut
Stress affects digestion, leading to bloating, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
How to manage it?
- Eat fiber-rich foods and stay hydrated
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods
- Practice relaxation techniques
4. Heart Palpitations: When Stress Affects Your Heartbeat
Ever feel your heart racing for no reason? Stress triggers heart palpitations, making it feel like your heart is skipping beats. While usually harmless, chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease.
How to calm it?
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
- Practice deep breathing or meditation
- Engage in regular physical activity
5. Irregular or Missed Periods: Stress and Hormonal Imbalance
High stress levels can disrupt hormone production, leading to irregular or missed periods, worsening PMS, and even fertility issues.
How to regulate your cycle?
- Maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly
- Avoid excessive workouts or extreme dieting
- Reduce stress through mindfulness or hobbies
6. Sleep Problems: Stress and Insomnia
If you struggle to fall asleep or wake up frequently, stress might be to blame. It keeps your mind racing and increases cortisol levels, making relaxation difficult.
How to sleep better?
- Create a bedtime routine and avoid screens before sleep
- Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or journaling
- Limit caffeine in the afternoon
Video : 7 Signs of A Mental Breakdown
7. Weight Gain: Stress and Emotional Eating
Stress increases cravings for unhealthy foods and triggers the release of cortisol, which promotes fat storage, especially around the belly. Lack of sleep and low energy further reduce motivation to exercise.
How to prevent stress-related weight gain?
- Choose healthier snacks and eat mindfully
- Stay active with enjoyable workouts
- Find stress relief in non-food activities like reading or meditation
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Stress
Stress affects the body in many ways, but you can take steps to manage it. By practicing relaxation techniques, eating well, staying active, and getting enough sleep, you can reduce its impact and improve your overall health.
If you’re experiencing persistent stress-related symptoms, listen to your body and take action before they worsen.
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