Love stories often defy conventional norms, and Brooke McNelis and Patrick Daly are living proof.
The couple, based in Encinitas, California, have faced numerous negative comments over their 22-year age gap. However, their relationship stands as a testament to the resilience of genuine connection.
Brooke, 33, who works in medical sales, dismisses the assumption made by trolls that she’s only with fiancé Patrick, 54, for his money, claiming that men her own age are “too insecure.”
Introduced by Chief Financial Officer Patrick’s step-niece, who is also Brooke’s close friend from college, the pair’s love story began unexpectedly and blossomed into something far deeper over time.
“Funnily enough, my mum always said I needed an older man,” says Brooke. “When I brought Pat home, she said, ‘I didn’t mean the same age as me!'”
Brooke revealed she had previously tried dating men her own age, but they were always very insecure. “I needed an older man who let me be my complete self,” she adds, which is what she has found in Patrick.
Throughout their relationship, the couple has faced criticism from online trolls who have labeled Brooke a “gold-digger” based on their age difference. However, she remains undeterred, asserting, “I have a full-blown career and know the truth, so the outside noise doesn’t bother me.”
Some on TikTok have cruelly suggested she is “engaged to her dad,” which they addressed together in a video response where Patrick joked, “What’s wrong with being engaged to your dad?”
Judgments on the street are a common occurrence for the pair too. Despite initially being skeptical, both Brooke and Patrick’s loved ones are supportive of their relationship, which is what matters most to them.
Brooke has also formed a great relationship with Patrick’s adult daughter but admits that the only obstacle in their love story is that they may not have children together.
Despite the criticism and challenges, Brooke and Patrick’s relationship continues to thrive, underscoring the power of love to overcome societal expectations and prejudices.
