Austin Wayne Underwood and Jessica Smith are both in their thirties and they are getting engaged! But even though this sounds like typical good news, its far from ordinary. Austin and Jessica both have Down’s syndrome – and it’s the very thing that made them sweet hearts since they running through playgrounds at three years old.
Austin’s mom, Jan, was determined to see that her child and other children with Down’s syndrome be treated fairly, and have the chance at the life they serve. She became a leader and go-to for other moms of children with Down’s syndrome.
Jessica’s mom sought out Jan and they forged a family friendship that’s been strong for years and even decade. The families grew so close that they had been gathering together every Christmas for over 30 years. But in 2012, Austin had to skip the family gathering for something else that was equally special.
Austin loved Jessica since they were small children, and on that night he was going to do something about it. With a ring in his pocket, he took Jessica on a limo ride to see Christmas lights. When he stepped out of the car, he dropped one knee and asked Jessica to marry him! It was a fairy tale like no other!
In that moment, the couple accomplished all that their mothers and families wanted for them – to be happy! Now the two families will be officially joined together by this beautiful marriage. God had His hand in their lives from the very beginning.
Austin, the groom-to-be said, “For me, it is about being a part of Jessica’s life and always being together.”
They are planning a Western-themed wedding for this summer.
Credit: Huffington Post
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.