When Leah Bourdo hit “record,” she wasn’t just filming a proposal—she was capturing a moment that would melt hearts across the internet. Her ex-husband Steve’s engagement to his girlfriend, Shonda, wasn’t just about romance. It was a testament to forgiveness, friendship, and a family redefined.
Leah and Steve, from Michigan, ended their marriage in 2016 after a rocky relationship. Steve later described their time together as “a living hell,” a sentiment that left little doubt their split was for the best. Yet, instead of animosity, the two built an unlikely friendship. This bond became a blessing for Shonda and Steve’s daughters, creating a co-parenting dynamic many only dream of.
@blinkerthanks I got to video my ex husband propose to his girlfriend…so special❤️ #coparenting #coparentinggoals #coparentingchamps #exhusbandsnewwife #bonusmom @the_shonda.rae @stevebourdo ♬ A thousand years – Zeus
Fast forward to Steve’s proposal. Leah didn’t just watch from the sidelines—she played a pivotal role in planning and filming the big moment. In the heartwarming TikTok video that has since gone viral, Leah captures the joy, the tears, and a bouquet of flowers handed over by the couple’s daughters to their future stepmom.
“This weekend, I got to video my ex-husband proposing to his girlfriend… so special,” Leah wrote in her post. But her involvement wasn’t just about the act of filming. She explained: “She is incredible with our daughters. They love her so much. Not only is she good to our girls, but she also respects the co-parenting relationship we’ve built. On top of that, she has become my friend, my family even.”
Leah’s words, brimming with gratitude and affection, struck a chord with viewers. “Proof it doesn’t have to be all drama and spiteful,” one user commented. Another chimed in: “This has made me sob my heart out. How unselfish of you. You have taught me a HUGE lesson.”
Steve and Shonda also shared their gratitude online. Steve wrote on Facebook, “I never expected things like this to happen, but I’m happy to show a new perspective on co-parenting and giving kids their best chance at a great life.”
Meanwhile, Shonda took to her own Facebook account to announce her engagement, saying, “We’ve already become a family, but now we’ll all share the same last name.” She added a special thanks to Leah, calling her “more than just the girl’s mom” and “my family.”
This story isn’t just about a proposal. It’s about love—between partners, parents, and friends—proving that family can thrive in the most unexpected ways.
What do you think of Leah’s inspiring gesture? Would you do the same? Share this story with your friends to spread some positivity!
