Turtley Devoted To You

When they met, Shannon and Anthony were immediately enamored by each other. Shannon can recall leaving that encounter and immediately calling her mother to tell her she had met someone special. Anthony did the same. During that meeting, a client of Anthony's had asked whether he had told her about his turtles. He played it off, trying to avoid scaring her away so soon. She would find out soon enough, but even with full disclosure, Shannon never knew exactly what she was signing up for.

The pastime of a spouse can have a considerable impact on a family. When that interest becomes something the person fully dedicates their life to, the effects are sure to be felt by all. And why shouldn't they be? Turtles are the most endangered group of vertebrates on the planet and they need all the help they can get in every sense. Educating the public, helping build and operate non-profit organizations, assisting with field research, and breeding critically endangered animals in captivity are all in a day's work.

Turtles have created a fulfilling and rewarding life for Anthony, personally and professionally. They have also brought him closer to Shannon. At times, however, turtles have pushed the two of them apart. Every relationship takes work, some more than others. While each couple has their own struggles, Anthony and Shannon take that to unique extremes.