Westmead lovebirds celebrate their 35th Valentine’s: ‘She’s the spark that makes my heart beat’

Meeting in the halls of Westmead Hospital’s radiology unit in 1985, orderly Rob Digirolamo and nurse Clare Digirolamo knew it was love at first sight.

Instantly becoming inseparable, Rob described his connection with Clare as electric.

“Her piercing blue eyes, her voice, her laugh, it was enough for me to fall head over heels.

“We went on our first date and since then the love we have for each other has only gotten stronger.

“We have two beautiful sons, a great circle of friends, and a very happy marriage,” Rob said.

After being together for more than three decades, Rob is still thinking of ways to show Clare he loves her.

“Every morning I bring a coffee to her office.

“She prefers a skim milk cap with one sugar. Sometimes she mixes it up and has a chai latté, but I usually guess the right order.

“For Valentine’s Day and I want to do something extra special. Apart from coffee, I think I’ll grab some flowers to surprise her and maybe a peck on the cheek.”

Rob said people often ask him what the secret is to a happy marriage, and he always gives the same answer: listening.

“To me listening is often more important than talking. Talking is good, but you have to know how to listen.

“Don’t sweat the small stuff, and remind them every day that you love them.

“It sounds corny but Clare is the spark that makes my heart beat. She is my best friend and I couldn’t imagine my life without her.”

Happy Valentine’s Day to all the lovebirds out there!