Despite growing up twenty minutes from each other, Erika and Jeff met while working as Physician Assistants at NewYork-Presbyterian in Manhattan. At the hospital, the extremely punctual and meticulous Erika and the “too cool for school” Jeff quickly sparked an amazing friendship that spanned years. They both worked night shift and would talk for hours on end about their families, friends, and their travels. As the nights wore on, they started to realize that this was more than a friendship. Instead of just talking about the vacations that they went on, they decided to plan trips that included both groups of their friends. They looked forward to these vacations so much, but once they were completed, they realized the huge void they both felt when they parted ways at JFK airport. Even after spending an entire week together, they would immediately make plans for the day after the trip. It was at this point, that they became inseparable and realized they were meant to be together. Whether they were riding camels in the Sahara, exploring the streets of Sicily, or just having date nights in Astoria, they loved and appreciated every moment together. Eventually, Erika decided to leave her well insulated, 35 degree apartment in Astoria to live with Jeff in Manhattan. Although Jeff was devastated when his beloved Yankee mural and flag were taken down, he knew it was worth it to live with the love of his life. In September 2024, Jeff brought Erika to their favorite park in the city, Gantry State Park, and asked her to spend the rest of their lives together. They celebrated with all of the family and friends that they used to once talk about at work and ensured that they would never leave JFK airport alone again.