n this candid episode of Fives Unfiltered, Gary—now 39—shares the rollercoaster journey of a 19-year relationship that transformed his life. From an unconventional first meeting online and the challenges of a long-distance romance that led him to live at his partner’s mum’s house, Gary walks us through the milestones: moving into their own home, getting married, and welcoming their first child. He opens up about the intense pressures of balancing a growing business, the emotional toll of parenting a child with special needs, and the mounting stress that eventually led to the breakdown of their relationship. Now separated for just under two years, Gary’s raw account reveals the deep frustrations of limited contact with his son and the ongoing struggle to reclaim his role as a dad. Join Gary as he reflects on his past, the red flags he ignored, and how reaching out for support—both through personal networks and dedicated men's groups—has become a lifeline in his quest for a better future.