Not all kids are lucky enough to get to know their great-grandparents, but the relationship between little ones and their great-grandmothers and great-grandfathers can be super special and rewarding for everybody involved...including the rest of the family!
One 2-year-old boy not only has a tight bond with his great-grandfather, he's actually helping him to fight Parkinson's disease. When Philip Thompson was diagnosed with Parkinson's over 10 years ago, it was a huge blow to his family, including his granddaughter, Taryn Watson. Since then, his grandchildren have done everything they can to make sure Thompson stays active and healthy — and now Watson's toddler son is getting in on the action.
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"TJ started to not only take a liking to my grandpa but wanted to help him ," Watson told Good Morning America .
"Sometimes, she said, TJ holds out his hand for his great-grandfather as they take walks outside. Other times, he encourages him to move or simply gives him a loving hug . 'I think it says a lot about TJ. He's very compassionate at a young age,' Watson said. 'I didn't even know you could really teach a kid that thing at that young of an age, but he really has caught on to a lot of things.'"
Related: Baby and Great-Grandma Learn to Use Their Walkers 90 Years Apart in Sweet Video
Watson said taking care of Thompson brings the entire family together .
"My grandpa has been that person that we all have been able to come together and be there for, and then it kind of just makes us closer as well," Watson said.
In an Instagram post , the mom praised TJ's "nurturing spirit."
"Kids just know when someone is battling with an illness and needs extra love! My papa always says TJ helps him fight. Watching our loved ones decline is extremely difficult however, witnessing our young ones give them life again is so beautiful . Our babies are born with purpose."
How to Help a Loved One With Parkinson's Disease
What TJ is doing for his great-grandpa — helping to keep him active — is actually one of the best things anyone can do for someone with Parkinson's.
"Exercise is important for everyone, but it’s especially helpful for people with Parkinson’s disease ," according to Healthline.
"Research finds that exercise helps the brain use dopamine — a chemical involved in movement — more efficiently. Fitness improves strength, balance, memory, and quality of life in people with this condition."
Daily walks or even low-intensity dance or yoga classes can be super beneficial for someone with Parkinson's. Plus, these activities get them out of the house, which helps to prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Thanks to little TJ and his family, Philip Watson will never have to worry about being alone!
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