For Leah, knowing that her grandmother Natalie is always there brings a sense of comfort that is hard to put into words. “It means a lot,” Leah said. “I know there is going to be somebody who knows me, knows what I need, and will be there. It just is not complicated.”

Recently retired from teaching, Natalie embraced the role of caregiver for Leah. “I stepped up and said, ‘Okay, I’ll do it,’” she said. What began as a practical solution soon proved to be a lifelong commitment to creating a stronger relationship with Leah.

For both women, caregiving became more than a duty. Natalie cherished these chances to spend more time with her granddaughter and truly got to know her as an adult. “I feel like I know her better than I would have if I hadn’t been her caregiver,” she said. Although Natalie lives about an hour away, that distance helps Leah build independence while knowing she still has a safety net. “I know I have somebody, but I can also try things on my own. It is part of becoming an adult,” Leah said.

Their relationship is filled with shared experiences and joyful moments. Leah laughs as she talks about attending Ohio State football games together, sitting side by side, and doing what they call the “Tarzan yell.” During Leah’s college years, Natalie and her husband would visit campus, getting to know Leah’s friends and becoming part of her college world. “My friends got to know her,” Leah said. “That was really fun.”

Travel has also played a special role in their bond. On family trips to Disney World and Busch Gardens, Natalie and Leah often find their own adventures together. While others head to roller coasters, they seek out animal experiences, spending quiet, meaningful time together. Leah remembers encounters with gorillas, cheetahs, and elephants as some of her favorites. “It was our own little thing,” she said.

Through caregiving, Natalie has gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience and determination of people with disabilities. “I just learned to appreciate more what these youngsters do,” she said. “It amazes me.” At the same time, challenges have arisen, especially during times when Leah faced medical issues. During those moments, Natalie spoke about having to stay strong and upbeat, even when she felt worried or afraid. Facing adversity together has strengthened their bond even more.

That bond has shaped who Leah is today. Now a therapist with a master’s degree in counseling, Leah credits her grandmother with teaching her patience and compassion. “She is patient with everyone,” Leah said. “It taught me to slow down and really be there for people.”

Leah is also proud of how far she has come, both academically and personally. From adaptive track and sled hockey in her school years to earning advanced degrees and starting her career, she has continued to push forward. “Just because we need support does not mean we are not contributing,” Leah said. “It is like needing glasses. You still do the same things as everyone else.”

Both Leah and Natalie hope their story encourages others. To people with disabilities, Leah offers simple advice. “Do not be ashamed of needing help,” she said. “If it gets you where you want to be, it is worth it.” Natalie echoes that message for families. She encourages people to use available supports, reminding them that those services exist for a reason.

Together, Leah and Natalie show what is possible when support, trust, and love come together. Their story isn’t just about caregiving, but about growing together, building independence, and proving that with the right support, people can achieve more than others might expect.