Celebrating Milestones

After hearing all the alcolades received about our friends, Tom and Sonja Shinduk, and listening to the stories shared by others and themselves, I felt compelled to write this article. Celebrating their 70 years of marriage and their 90th birthdays on the same day is truly remarkable. Family stories filled with heart, love and soul show that there is hope in a complex world, and it's important for everyone to know that such milestones are possible.

How many couples do you know that have celebrated their 90th birthdays the same year and reached the milestone of 70 years of marriage? Yesterday, Ted and I had the honor of witnessing Tom and Sonja Shinkdruk's 90th birthdays and 70th wedding Anniversary.

According to the U.S. Census, only 0.1% of married couples reach the incredible milestone of 70 years together. This rare and remarkable achievement symbolizes a lifetime of love and partnership, especially when considering the the challenges and obstacles many couples face along the way.

Hearing their stories about overcoming hurdles that tested the strength of their marriage left me in awe of their mindset - NEVER GIVE UP -the title of Tom's book. I encourage you to read it, the wisdom, tips, and stories are life changing.

What does it take to achieve a platinum (70-year) marriage?

Communication, compromise, and resilience play a huge role in helping couples navigate the ups and downs of married life. For example, Tom has beaten the odds as a four- time cancer survivor, and his wife overcame cancer this year as well.

In 2008, their oldest son passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 52. The family was heartbroken and devastated, but they pulled together, supported each other, and came through by working as a team. Family unity is the key ingredient to overcoming the pain of illness and managing the grief of losing a loved one. Together, Each Achieves More.

Key Takeaways:

#Milestone of 70 years marriage

#Overcoming the tests of marriage

#The importance of communication, compromise and resilience

#Family unity and teamwork

#The "Never Give Up" Mindset