Few, it would seem. Many have had this dream fulfilled. Others have failed in their solitary quest to find a life partner.
For Jakkar and Tyonna, this dream is a reality, they have found each other and the strongest of commitments exists between them.
Jakkar proposed. Tyonna accepted with a “yes.” Twice. The momentous day was June 10, 2009. “It was a Thursday in the lunchroom,” said Jakkar with more than a hint of delight in his voice. “No one else knew and she almost choked,” he said with a laugh. Without missing a beat, Tyonna recalled this most important moment. “I almost fainted,” she said quickly and then as if to give Jakkar’s proposal it’s proper priority, she emphatically stated, “I said yes twice!” Jakkar’s mother had helped pick out the ring containing a single brightly colored stone.
The 25 and 26-year-old couple attend a day program at Sertoma Centre in Alsip, a social service agency that provides vocational training services for Jakkar and Tyonna. In a recent LifeMyWay interview, the happy couple shared some thoughts about each other and their desire to be married.
They’ve known each other since childhood through the acquaintance of a family member. “I used to try to beat him up,” said a smiling Tyonna. Jakkar responded to Tyonna’s playful comment with a sheepish grin.
Beyond getting married, each has aspirations to attend college and eventually become employed in some way that helps others, especially children. Jakkar would like to be in a position to “be a role model for kids and talk to them about things that keep them on the right path.” Tyonna would like to somehow be involved in teaching at a school. Both Jakkar and Tyonna believe that education is the key to improving their vocational objectives. Jakkar is presently taking a literary course at Prairie State College in Chicago Heights in order to help him improve his poetry and writing skills.
Following the excitement of an engagement, there are usually some fairly logical steps that lead to setting a date for a marriage ceremony. Afterwards if a couple is lucky, a lifetime of living happily together ensues.
For Jakkar and Tyonna, these logical steps following their engagement have not been so usual. Several wedding dates have been set, but there are no concrete plans for the couple beyond establishing future wedding dates that come. And go.
There are obstacles. Currently, they have nowhere to live together. They will need in-home supports. They will require transportation.
They know their dream of marriage is not impossible. Others with disabilities have found a way. They do require, however, a unique blend of family, staffing and technological supports.
Like other couples with disabilities, they may be somewhat unsure what their marriage in a supportive home would look like and may be uncertain in the manner of how to proceed. They do know that the diligence and support of friends, family and social service agencies is necessary and will eventually lead to the life they would like to live together. Above all, they are certain of their abilities and their love for each other.
Jakkar and Tyonna are optimistic. They look forward to the future together. “I wouldn’t want to be with anyone else,” Jakkar declares. They compliment each other
Who doesn’t dream of a life commitment from another? Jakkar and Tyonna have found love, have made the commitment, but have only begun to fulfill their ultimate dream of married life together.
Remembering Illinois LifeMyWay Campaign!!!
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