Nicholas Zangrando — lovingly known as “Nicky” by his mom — is a 38-year-old young gentleman who leaves an impression on everyone he meets.

Diagnosed with Down syndrome, Nicky is ambulatory, largely independent in his personal care, and proudly verbal. He loves to chat with staff and peers, thrives on structure, and carries himself with a twinkle in his eye and a smile that can light up an entire room. He also has one very well-known trait: he’s a big hugger — sometimes needing a gentle reminder to hug softly!

Since 2017, Nicky has attended Rising Treetops at Oakhurst’s summer camp program. Over the years, it has become a familiar and joyful part of his routine. At home, he lives with his parents in Garfield, New Jersey. He works two days a week at ShopRite and will soon begin a new Day Program — milestones that reflect his independence and growth.

But even the most joyful spirits feel life’s heavy moments.

Recently, Nicky’s father’s health declined due to Parkinson’s disease. Watching his dad struggle to do things he once did with ease — to move differently, to interact differently — has been deeply upsetting for Nicky. Change is hard for many of us. For someone who thrives on predictability and structure, it can feel overwhelming.
Recognizing that Nicky needed space, routine, and emotional breathing room, his mother Brenda reached out to Rising Treetops at Oakhurst to ask if he could attend a respite session.

It was a simple request — but a powerful one.

Respite is often described as support for caregivers. And it absolutely is. But it is also support for individuals — a chance to reset, reconnect, and recharge.

After his time at respite, Brenda shared words that say everything:

“Sending him to respite was the best thing we could have done for him. He came back a changed man.”

The structured days filled with engaging activities, laughter, and connection gave Nicky exactly what he needed. He had a schedule — something he loves. In fact, his mom shared that on the ride home, Nicky proudly read his entire schedule out loud to his brother-in-law, reliving each moment.

There were friends — old and new. There was familiarity. There was joy.

There was relief.

During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Nicky’s story reminds us that support is not only about long-term services or milestones. Sometimes it’s about stepping in during life’s harder seasons. It’s about recognizing that adults with developmental disabilities experience grief, stress, and change just like anyone else — and they deserve spaces that help them process those feelings in healthy, supportive ways.

Rising Treetops at Oakhurst provided more than activities. It provided stability when things at home felt uncertain. It provided connection when emotions felt heavy. It provided renewal.

And for a man known for his hugs and bright smile, it helped bring that sparkle back.

Support doesn’t just sustain families.

It restores them.