The story of Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian orphan with dwarfism, has captivated public attention for years. From questions surrounding her age to allegations of abuse and neglect, her journey has been anything but ordinary. Recently, the spotlight has intensified again with the airing of “The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter.” Many are now asking: Where Is Natalia Grace Today and what has become of her after the tumultuous events depicted in the docuseries?
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/Natalia-Grace-People-Cover-122724-53e2a2f16b4f4511b55bf6cbf4e0e716.jpg)
Natalia Grace featured on the cover of People Magazine, offering an exclusive look into her current life.
Escaping the Mans Family: Seeking a New Beginning
In December 2023, just days before Christmas, Natalia Grace took a significant step to reclaim her independence. After being legally adopted by Bishop Antwon and Cynthia Mans in June of the same year, Natalia found herself in a situation she felt compelled to escape. Accusations of controlling behavior and isolation from the outside world surrounded the Mans family, prompting Natalia to seek a way out.
According to reports, Natalia, with the assistance of her boyfriend Neil, orchestrated a carefully planned departure. This escape marked the end of a decade spent with the Mans family, a period that, according to witness accounts presented in “The Curious Case of Natalia Grace,” allegedly involved instances of mistreatment. Neighbors and friends reportedly claimed to have witnessed concerning behavior, including physical discipline and confinement. While the Manses have not responded to these allegations, and Natalia has neither confirmed nor denied specific incidents, her decision to leave speaks volumes about her desire for a different life.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/Mans-family-natalia-grace-122724-072470b26a2644438b1b76d696cac027.jpg)
A family photo of Natalia Grace with the Mans family, her adoptive family before her escape, as featured in her docuseries.
Finding Stability with the DePauls: A Haven of Care
Natalia’s escape led her to Nicole and Vince DePaul, a couple who had previously attempted to adopt her in 2009. Nicole DePaul, an old friend, and her husband Vince welcomed Natalia into their home in upstate New York. This move marked a turning point towards stability and support for Natalia.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/Nicole-DePaul-Vince-DePaul-Natalia-Grace-123124-03-4fad9a8dad7c4271beed1facf401c6d4.jpg)
Nicole and Vince DePaul, who have opened their home to Natalia Grace, providing her with a supportive environment.
Living with the DePauls, who are also little people, Natalia has reportedly found a sense of belonging and understanding. The DePauls have focused on providing her with a nurturing environment, including access to therapy to address past traumas. While Nicole DePaul states there are no current plans for legal adoption, their home offers Natalia a family dynamic built on care and guidance, a stark contrast to the alleged control she experienced previously. Nicole emphasizes that they are guiding Natalia, not controlling her, fostering her independence and personal growth.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/DePaul-family-and-Natalia-in-kitchen-122724-feb281c3078147d2a49b8c00eccb099e.jpg)
Natalia Grace pictured in the kitchen with the DePaul family, showcasing her integration into her new family life.
Natalia’s Life Today: Dreams and Aspirations
So, where is Natalia Grace today in terms of her personal life and future outlook? As of late 2024, Natalia resides with the DePauls and is actively pursuing her GED, with aspirations to become a school teacher. This demonstrates her commitment to education and a desire to give back to the community. She is also learning to drive, a significant step towards independence and mobility.
Musically, Natalia enjoys listening to popular artists like Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus, reflecting typical interests of someone her age. Furthermore, she is preparing for necessary surgeries related to her disabilities, indicating proactive management of her health and well-being. Natalia has also found romance with her boyfriend Neil, adding another positive dimension to her life.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999×0:1001×2)/Natalia-Grace-People-magazine-122724-93165b593a2746258fdee1d66061b222.jpg)
A recent photo of Natalia Grace in New York, highlighting her present-day life and activities.
Natalia herself expresses a sense of freedom and gratitude for her current life. Reflecting on her past, she acknowledges the hardships she has overcome and views her present as a blessing. While missing her siblings from the Mans family, she embraces her newfound independence and the opportunities ahead.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/Nicole-DePaul-Vince-DePaul-Natalia-Grace-123124-01-2b4c12950b374e48914f7d0e4b0e3c64.jpg)
Natalia Grace engrossed in reading, suggesting her pursuit of education and personal growth.
“The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter”
For those seeking a deeper understanding of Natalia Grace’s story, “The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter” offers further insights. This docuseries delves into her life with the Mans family and her subsequent transition to living with the DePauls. It provides a platform for various perspectives and sheds light on the complexities of her situation. Premiering on Investigation Discovery and streaming on Max in January 2024, the series has fueled public interest in where Natalia Grace is today and the ongoing developments in her life.
In conclusion, Natalia Grace today is living with the DePaul family in upstate New York, focusing on her education, personal growth, and future aspirations. After a challenging past, she appears to be building a more stable and fulfilling life, surrounded by support and care. Her story continues to unfold, but current reports suggest a positive trajectory for Natalia as she navigates her journey toward independence and healing.