In an era when researching one’s genealogy has become fashionable, DNA tests have revealed amazing stories to many people. However, for one couple, what began as a simple look into their ancestors resulted in a surprising finding.
Celina and Joseph Quinones, who have been happily married for ten years and have three children, were unprepared for the findings of their DNA test. Celina mentioned feeling “sick to her stomach” after seeing the data.
Celina began her quest into DNA testing out of curiosity. She noticed the differences in her children’s appearances: one had dark complexion, another had curly hair, and the middle one had pale skin.
She chose to investigate her heritage using a 23andMe test to get a solid answer. “People would ask, ‘What are you?’ and I couldn’t give an answer except Native American,” she revealed.
Celina and her husband, Joseph, sent in DNA samples to learn more about their background. The couple’s romance had been a whirlwind, with them married only four months after meeting.
They had created a life together, raising three children and remembering anniversaries. Celina expected that the test would uncover interesting ancestral facts, but the truth was closer than she expected.
The DNA findings showed an unexpected family tie. However, Celina did not immediately reveal what she discovered while processing the material.
To deal with the surprise, she posted their story on TikTok, expecting a playful response. Instead, the video went viral, generating millions of views and drawing criticism.
One reader was shocked, stating, “This is so disturbing, why would you marry your cousin?” Others wondered why the pair hadn’t known sooner.
Remarks poured in, including “They look so much alike; how did they not know?” Some expressed pity for their children. “I feel bad for the kids, hopefully, people don’t bully them,” a commenter said.
Celina’s adolescent son also expressed his views about the incident. “I feel a little bit weird about it because it’s not something you want to brag about,” he said.
He considered the timing of the discovery, saying, “If they found out before they got married, there’d be something obviously wrong with that.” However, he insisted that because it occurred later, there was no problem.
The couple eventually figured out why no one in their family noticed the connection at their wedding. Joseph’s grandmother on his father’s side was adopted, therefore the familial relationship was disregarded.
Celina mentioned how interconnected their town is, despite its size. “Colorado seems so big, but it’s really not that big. Everyone knows everyone, and most likely, everyone is related.”
Despite their amazement, the couple chose to continue forward. They have been married for 17 years and have decided to share their expertise to help others.
Instead of being negatively affected by the DNA revelation, they founded “Before We Be”, a dating service. Its goal is to help people avoid unintentionally developing connections with relatives.
Celina’s story serves as a reminder of the shocks that DNA tests can uncover. It also emphasizes the significance of accepting unexpected truths and moving ahead together.
Feature Image Credit: (Tiktok/@celinaq)
