Some love stories are written in the stars, while others begin with an unexpected knock on the wrong door. That’s how Scott and Steffanie’s journey started—by chance, or perhaps fate.
Scott, a U.S. Navy veteran, had just returned to Virginia Beach after being stationed in Japan for two years. While reconnecting with family, he set out to visit his cousin, only to find himself at the wrong house. The door opened, and in front of him stood Steffanie, a woman who would soon change his life forever.
But like all great love stories, theirs came with trials that tested their strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to each other.
The Life They Built Together
For over 25 years, Scott and Steffanie have built a life filled with love, family, and adventure. They raised two boys, now 16 and 18, who have been their pride and joy. Steffanie, determined to pursue her education, earned her college degree with highest honors, graduating summa cum laude with a perfect 4.0 GPA. And together, they fulfilled a lifelong dream—traveling to Ireland, a trip that would become one of their most cherished memories.
Despite their differences—Scott, the structured planner from his military background, and Steffanie, the adventurous soul who embraces the unexpected—they complement each other perfectly.
But life threw them a challenge they never saw coming.
A Brain Tumor Diagnosis That Changed Everything
In 2008, while balancing motherhood, studies, and daily life, Steffanie started experiencing severe headaches. Determined not to let anything slow her down, she pushed through, focusing on completing her degree.
But just six months after graduation, their world turned upside down. Steffanie was diagnosed with a brain tumor.
Rather than waiting for answers, she took control of her health, researching specialists and flying from Illinois to California to consult with Dr. Mitch Berger at UCSF. In June 2009, she underwent her first brain surgery, where doctors diagnosed her with a grade II oligodendroglioma.
The procedure was a success—follow-up scans showed no visible tumor. However, Steffanie faced cognitive side effects, including challenges with problem-solving, planning, and decision-making. That’s when Scott’s natural strengths as a planner became a lifeline. Where Steffanie struggled, Scott stepped in—his ability to organize and structure their lives became an essential part of her healing journey.
When the Brain Tumor Returned
For seven years, life felt stable. Steffanie’s scans remained clear, and she and Scott embraced every moment. But in 2016, routine imaging revealed a small growth.
Doctors monitored the tumor’s progression, and by February 2017, Steffanie underwent her second brain surgery. The procedure was successful, but the emotional toll was heavy—especially on their sons.
“The boys just fell apart,” she recalled. “It was a scary situation for them.”
For Scott, the weight of uncertainty became overwhelming. The love of his life was battling something he couldn’t control, and their future felt fragile. But Steffanie, true to her spirit, refused to let fear define their lives.
Together, they learned to embrace the unknown and focus on living for today.
Finding Strength in Support
A brain tumor diagnosis affects more than just the patient—it impacts entire families. Scott quickly realized that he needed support, too.
“Connecting with others in a similar situation helped me learn how to better support my wife and process the day-to-day emotions,” he shared.
Through support groups and community connections, Scott found comfort in knowing he wasn’t alone. And with each passing day, the couple leaned on one another, using their unique strengths to navigate the uncertainty.
A Love That Stands the Test of Time
Scott and Steffanie recently celebrated 25 years of marriage—a milestone that felt even more meaningful given the battles they’ve faced together.
Reflecting on their journey, Scott said:
“Twenty-five years ago, I went to the wrong house, and the girl of my dreams answered the door.”
Their love story continues, not in spite of the challenges they’ve faced, but because of them.
Steffanie’s words serve as a reminder of their resilience:
“Things have been really hard since my diagnosis, but we are stubborn, and we’re not giving up.”
