Loving Couple/Patient Caretaker. In 1971, during her senior year at the Bible College, Carolyn was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Her struggles with MS symptoms led her to drop out, but Carolyn returned to Columbia and graduated in 1973 and then worked for the music department until the summer of 1975. In California, Philip Ayers was stationed with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Through a Billy Graham crusade, Phil heard the testimony of a man who had attended CIU, which God used to bring Phil to CIU in 1973. God showed Phil that he had a special calling which did not involve being a missionary; rather, God called Phil to take care of a wife with health needs. Phil and Carolyn met at CIU and married in June, 1975. Phil has served God in the marketplace as an inside salesman with the Alan H. Shaw Company. Carolyn was able to work for many years as part time church secretary, play the piano at church, and work remotely from home as a receptionist. She had a nurse who cared for her during the week, and Phil lovingly cared for her every night and on the weekends. Phil is an inspiration to many in his marriage to Carolyn.  He took her to Bible conferences, concerts, and even marriage conferences over the years. Phil realized that Carolyn understood and processed everything around her, and he wanted to keep her connected and involved.  Carolyn passed away in 2013.