An elderly woman who tied the knot with a man from Morocco 24 years her junior after connecting on Facebook is facing challenges living together in the UK. Karen Aghzzaf, 70, from Castleford, Yorkshire, got acquainted with Brahim, 46, on the social media platform in July 2015. Despite the distance of 2,107 miles between them, the couple clicked instantly. Some doubted the sincerity of their relationship due to the significant age difference, with Brahim being closer in age to Karen’s sons than to her. Karen finally met Brahim in person in Marrakesh in July 2016 and they officially married in November 2017. However, their plans to live together in the UK were thwarted twice as Brahim failed the mandatory English test required for a spouse visa, citing his dyslexia as the cause.
Karen, now residing in Blackpool, Lancashire, expressed her frustration at the visa hurdles, emphasizing Brahim’s desire to work and care for her. Despite considering moving to Morocco initially, Karen finds the prospect challenging. Brahim, who shares a strong bond with Karen’s sons, initially connected with her online over their mutual love for Spain. After a series of visits and their marriage in Morocco, they aimed to secure a spouse visa for Brahim to join Karen in Castleford. However, Brahim’s struggles with the English language test have prolonged their separation. Despite appeals to the Home Office based on Brahim’s dyslexia diagnosis, the couple remains apart.
With Karen’s health deteriorating due to a recent diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the urgency to reunite with Brahim intensifies. Brahim expressed his deep longing to be with Karen, emphasizing the emotional toll of their prolonged separation. The couple, married for eight years, yearn to finally live together and support each other through life’s challenges. The Home Office has been contacted for a response to their situation.