Ask anyone who knows and supports James and Victoria to describe the couple and you immediately hear words like “lovable, respectful, enthusiastic and charming.” And soon, “Happy Anniversary!” will be added to that list, as friends and family congratulate James and Victoria on one year since saying “I do.”
The couple live near Louisville, Kentucky, lovingly supported by Dungarvin staff. They have known each other for more than 30 years, and finally tied the knot Feb. 15, 2025. That day came after years of dreaming and planning a wedding they had both wanted for so long.
James (far right in wheelchair) and Victoria during their wedding in 2025.
With Victoria in a beautiful, white dress and James in a smart suit with a pink tie to match her wedding bouquet, the couple said their vows, surrounded by adoring family, friends and their Dungarvin team. After the ceremony, they shared their first dance as husband and wife, followed by cake and clinking of glasses (chilled apple cider).
“ It was a dream come true for them,” said Connie W., James’ sister and guardian to both. “It made my heart happy to see that, because everyone deserves love, no matter who you are. And especially people who have disabilities — just because they have challenges doesn’t mean they don’t have feelings or that they don’t love.”
During the past year, Victoria and James have remained a happy couple, watching movies together, occasionally going out for dinner or shopping, and just hanging out enjoying each other’s company. Being married is “fantastic,” said James, who describes Victoria as an angel who is caring and loves to laugh.
Victoria said she loves “everything” about James, and that “the best part about being married is love, happiness and having our place together.”
“They are amazing; they’re loving, charming, and very caring,” said Doris Mutashobya, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) who lives with the couple.
“There’s not a dull moment with them,” added Program Director Jamila Hogan, who has known James and Victoria for about six months. “When I first started working here, they let me know they were married, and Victoria said I was her best friend. She’s very sweet and friendly. And Mr. James always has good stories for me.”
DSP Tymelia Hornbeak has noticed the couple are good communicators with each other, even when they have a disagreement. “They’re a very strong couple. They talk it out and they’re cool after that. James is accountable; when he knows he’s wrong, he’ll go back and say ‘I’m sorry,’ and be affectionate.”
To celebrate their anniversary, Victoria and James plan to stay at a hotel by themselves and go out to dinner. Being able to enjoy this type of outing is special to them because it allows them to practice being more independent as a couple.
“I am overjoyed to see this one-year wedding anniversary for James and Victoria,” said Dungarvin Area Director Sylvia Vandroff. “This is a sign that love can stand the test of time. It’s inspiring to us all.”
Dungarvin is proud of this wonderful couple for the amazing relationship they have nurtured. We congratulate them on their first wedding anniversary and wish them many more years of happiness together!