I’m not sure when Russell and I became such close friends, but during our high school years in Sydney, we were inseparable. It was a platonic friendship, though I think I had a crush on him at some point!
My mother, Nadine, was an arts editor and often took us to the opera and ballet. She adored Russell, and we shared wonderful moments in our converted church home. He would help out around the house, and we spent hours listening to music and chatting. I even tried to learn about football just because he enjoyed it, even if it bored me.
After school, our paths began to diverge. I left in 1984 to study art, while Russell pursued mechanical engineering. Although I occasionally saw him at his job at the petrol station, life took us in different directions. I moved to Cairns with a boyfriend I later married, and Russell and I lost touch.
In 2003, after my marriage ended and I moved back in with my mum to care for her, I faced a tough time in my late 30s. I struggled with IVF treatments and eventually lost my mum in 2009. The following years were challenging, but just before the pandemic, I sought a fresh start. I sold my house, bought a caravan, and planned to explore. But then COVID-19 hit. Surprisingly, the lockdowns became a time of healing. I took up jewelry-making, painting, and enjoying quiet moments with my dogs.
During this time, I couldn’t help but wonder about Russell. One day, I reached out to someone on Facebook with his name, but it wasn’t him. Then, in June 2025, I received a message from another Russell. He asked, “Are you the Gabby who lived in the church in Turramurra?”
We quickly reconnected, chatting on the phone for hours about our childhood and the shared memories of my mum. Russell had gone through a divorce too, and before long, he expressed his romantic interest. I hesitated, wanting to take things slow, but within two months, he had a plane ticket waiting for me to visit him in Adelaide.
That trip felt like a reunion. We dined at a lovely oceanfront restaurant, and I felt safe and at home. Our connection grew deeper, leading us to start a long-distance relationship. I had even bought an old church to renovate, and Russell, a project manager, offered his help. His insistence that my mum would have wanted him to assist sealed my feelings; I realized I was truly in love.
Last October, we attended our 40-year high school reunion, wanting to surprise our friends as a couple. On the night he arrived, he proposed during dinner at Port Stephens. It was unexpected but felt right. I never thought I’d find love again at my age, yet here we are, planning our future together. Our story reminds us that it’s never too late for love.
Today, we travel to see each other every few weeks, guided by long phone conversations in between. I cherish his curious nature and insight. We’re building a beautiful life together, and I can’t wait for more adventures ahead. As we discuss wedding plans, I have my eyes on a stunning dress for our special day, knowing my mum would have been overjoyed by our journey.
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In recent years, studies show that reconnecting with old friends, especially during challenging times, can significantly boost emotional well-being. According to a 2022 survey from the American Psychological Association, nearly 75% of people feel a renewed sense of happiness after reaching out to a long-lost friend. This aligns with Russell and my experience, emphasizing the profound impact of rekindling connections in our lives.
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