The person I count on
by Michael F. and Gregg B.
We had our first date 12 years ago. In September 1993, we had a commitment ceremony that was attended by 100 of our friends and family (my partner’s family), including our priest, who came without his collar and blessed our union. Since then, we have found out that he is gay.
Three years ago, I fell 25 feet off of a roof and needed surgery. I was in and out of consciousness, and the one person who I wanted to make decisions for me would not have been allowed to had I not been conscious. Fortunately, I was able to make my own decisions. With the domestic partnerships now in California, this is no longer a concern as long as you are registered. But if we travel, it could be a problem, for other states aren’t so quick to recognize basic rights for same-sex couples.
We are very happy together. In fact, we're best friends. The biggest challenge we face is that society still doesn't recognize our family in most circumstances. If we could be married legally, it would be so much easier.
Jan. 9, 2003