An unlikely but adorable friendship has formed between a pensioner with Alzheimer's and a four-year old who have now become the best of pals.
Doug Cheek, 76, who suffers with Alzheimer's and Royal Luna, four, met two years ago and have been inseparable ever since.
Advert
Royal's mum, Laura Luna, 42, from Los Angeles, had just started her new job as Doug's caretaker, when she was called for an emergency visit to his home.
Unable to find childcare at such short notice, Laura, a mum-of-three, took Royal with her, hoping Doug and his wife Tay, 76, did not think her unprofessional.
On the contrary, Doug and Tay loved her little helper, and Tay felt that Doug and Royal had an instant connection.
The bond was so obvious, Tay asked if Laura could bring Royal along to see them again.
Advert
Laura said: "Tay asked if I could bring Royal again as she noticed Doug was much happier than usual so I agreed as Royal hasn't got any grandparents who live nearby so it would be nice for him to have a grandfather figure."
She continued: "It has been really sweet to watch their friendship unfold, they almost speak their own language and have a secret handshake.
"They just gravitated towards each other and had instant chemistry, it was so nice to see.
Advert
"I think having someone young around has helped Doug as it gives him a sense of responsibility as he loves teaching Royal new things and reading him books."
Since being diagnosed with Alzheimer's five years ago, Doug gets confused most days, but his best buddy Royal helps as much as he can.
"They love going to the beach, playing a memory card game and reading, which helps keep Doug's brain stimulated."
Advert
The connection has grown so strong, that the first person on Royal's birthday party list was his 76-year-old pal.
Laura said: "When organising Royal's fourth birthday party, the first friend he wanted to invite was Doug, they really are best buds.
"I have overheard Royal tell his friends about Doug and always asks why we can't all live together which is super sweet.
Advert
Laura is however concerned that when Royal eventually starts school, Doug might be a bit lost without her son.
He's always sad to see the little one leave in the evening.
She said: "He always says [to Royal] when we leave at night 'Goodbye, I am going to miss you'."
It's all too much. This is cuteness overload.
Laura also revealed that although they have the best time together, its "not always rainbows and unicorns".
She said: "When Royal is having a hard day and crying or upset about something it can throw Doug off too.
"Some days can be more challenging then others, but that's to be expected.
"I have noticed that when Royal and Doug are having a hard day, we go to the beach and jump in the waves and everyone's mood shifts.
"Royal doesn't understand what is wrong with Doug but he says 'I know you have a owie on your brain, but I am going to help you'."
Could this story get any sweeter?
Laura added: "It is great to be able to teach my son how important it is to always be of service to others."
She said this interaction helping her to look after Doug has made Royal compassionate and empathetic.
If you are loving these best pals as much as us, the good news is you can see more of their adorable adventures by following their joint Instagram account.
Although were not sure we can take much more of this pure friendship or we'll start sobbing.
Tissues please.
Featured Image Credit: Caters