Raising a child as a single parent is never easy, but one Illinois family is proving that love and support can move mountains—especially when “Pop pop” is involved.
Instagram user @maryinthemiddle_ shared a heartwarming story that’s captured the internet’s attention, featuring her dad, Steve Lentz, stepping up in the most beautiful way to help care for his granddaughter. When Mary’s sister, Anna, found herself navigating motherhood on her own, their dad didn’t hesitate to rearrange his life to become the primary caregiver.
"From the moment my dad heard his daughter would be a single mom, he rearranged his work schedule to watch her daughter.”
— @maryinthemiddle_
A mayor, a grandfather, a hero
Mary shared the full story in a now-viral video, documenting her journey home from California to Mundelein, Illinois—where her parents have lived for 30 years. Her dad, Steve, has served as the town’s mayor for over a decade. But his proudest title these days might just be “Pop pop.”
In the video, Steve is shown doing everything from reading books and detangling hair to dancing in the kitchen and pushing a stroller down the sidewalk. It’s a tender look at a grandparent-grandchild bond that’s more like a best friendship.
"Pop pop being her forever bestie just got me in tears🔥❤️"
— Instagram commenter
A family that rallies together
Mary doesn’t hold back her admiration. “My sister and parents are all around heroes,” she captioned one clip. She lovingly describes Anna as “the spice of life in the fam,” and it’s clear the entire family is wrapping this little girl in warmth and care.
One particularly touching moment? A video Mary shared with the caption, “POV: your sister becomes a single mom and your dad asks if he can be the primary caregiver.” The footage includes Steve carefully brushing out his granddaughter’s hair and even taking her along to his workplace—truly embracing every moment.
"Steve is a mighty man above men. What an incredible example of love, grace, family, and sacrifice."
— Instagram commenter
The internet can’t get enough
And the internet? They're in love. Comments have poured in praising Steve’s commitment, calling him an “amazing father and grandfather” and “someone who truly gets it.” One commenter summed it up perfectly: “That’s somebody’s son, somebody’s husband, someone’s father, and now that little girl’s grandpa. Everyone involved in shaping him should be proud.”
Grandma Michelle is a star too
Mary also gave her mom, Michelle, a loving shoutout. Known on Instagram as @heybeginnerwife, Michelle shares her own moments with the little one, showing that this caregiving team is a full family affair. “She’s the luckiest to have the mama and grandparents she has ✨,” Mary wrote.
In a world where parenting often feels like an overwhelming solo act, this family reminds us what it really means to show up for one another. As one commenter wrote, “It takes a village indeed.”
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