David and Thelma mark 68 years of love on Valentine’s Day

David and Thelma Street have been together for an extraordinary 68 years, a bond that began when they were just 14 and 16 years old. Their story, which began with fleeting moments as young teenagers, continues to flourish today at Oakwood Grange care home in Barnsley. 

David fondly recalls the story of when his and Thelma’s paths first crossed many years ago. As a young boy, David found himself eagerly watching for a “pretty young girl” who passed his house nearly every day. He’d wait by his window, hoping for a glimpse of her.

Eventually, David mustered up the courage to step outside and stand by his door, waiting for her to pass. Years later, Thelma, who also had eyes for David all those years ago, confessed that she too, used to try and time her walks so that she could catch a glimpse of the handsome young man standing outside his door, eager to meet his gaze.

Almost seven decades have passed since those early, shy moments, and their love story has since been filled with laughter, shared adventures, and memories that are still being made today. Though their lives have slowed down from the days when they were speeding through the Spanish countryside on the back of a motorbike, their undeniable bond and love for one another remains unchanged. 

While Thelma’s Parkinson’s has made it increasingly difficult for her to communicate verbally the way she once did, David, ever the devoted husband, visits her at Oakwood Grange care home nearly every day. He holds her hand, tells her about his day, and gently reminds her of the cherished times they’ve shared together. Though Thelma’s ability to speak may be limited, the warmth in her smile is a quiet tribute to a connection that can be felt far beyond any words that are spoken. 

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