Apex Care Professional of the Year 2026 Nomination – Valeria Bechtold and Franziska Danzer

When we said goodbye to our first pair of care professionals, we felt we could never find anyone who would fill the void they’d left behind. But lo and behold, into our lives walked Valeria Bechtold and Franzi Danzer—two of the most caring, fun-loving young ladies out there. We were lucky enough to go straight from one “Dream Team” to another! 

Valeria arrived first with her quiet confidence and her salty sense of humor. She had a bit of a rocky start with some mishaps like a lost wallet and passport and an almost-towed car, but she handled each stressful situation with calm, collected composure. Valeria is one of the easiest people in the world to live with. She is incredibly conscientious and thoughtful, while never mincing words or shying away from giving her real, honest opinion. Her honesty is so rare in a world of people-pleasers and “yes men,” and her astute perception of human nature is always on point. Valeria really knows how to “read her audience.” She has such a keen eye for the ridiculous and a great sense of humor that she even manages to be funny in a foreign language! Valeria is one who never makes a big to-do or asks for praise for going above and beyond; she just does it as a matter of course, expecting nothing in return. She is also incredibly fashionable and has basically taken on the role of interior designer/personal stylist for our entire family. I don’t think I have ever seen Valeria happier than when I told her she could have free reign to style our 9-year-old nonverbal son, Nick. Her love of fashion and social media has turned Nick into a bit of a TikTok fashion icon! But far more important than fashion sense and funny TikToks are the incredible insight and spirit Valeria brings to our home. She is an absolute treasure of a human being.

Franzi was next to arrive on the Spagnoletti scene, and she brought with her an intellect that transcends language barriers and a positivity that knows no bounds. In the entire year and a half that I have been living with Franzi, I have literally never once seen her grumpy, cranky, or irritable. Of course, when she had a death in her family, she was devastated and sad, but still without a trace of negativity or pessimism. She has the single most positive attitude I have ever encountered in my life. Franzi is also one of the most curious, inquisitive people I’ve ever known—with a thirst for knowledge and a zest for learning I have rarely seen. Franzi is so intelligent and so earnest in her desire for knowledge that she is constantly questioning, pondering, and thinking deeply and critically about everything from politics to biology to theology and philosophy. There isn’t a topic on earth that doesn’t pique Franzi’s interest. And what’s even more special is that, despite her great intellect, she isn’t the slightest bit jaded. She sees the world through eyes filled with wonder, awe, and respect. She also relishes a good debate (much like her host dad does!), but in debating, always remains calm, respectful, and positive. As our youngest CP to date (only 19 when she arrived), Franzi has had the most personal growth since she came to us. It has been such a joy to watch her transform from a sweet, perky girl to a mature, spirited young woman right before our eyes.

Valeria and Franzi have added so much to our family. They’ve enriched our lives in so many ways—from “sister bonding” sessions with our teenage daughters to lively theoretical debates with Paul to deep talks with Amanda about life, love, and laser hair removal. In fact, one of the best ways of all is just their sheer sense of fun. Races with Amanda in the park, TikTok dances with the girls, spicy food eating challenges, constant all-family “prank wars” (thanks to our resident prankster, Valeria)—it all adds up to a
good dose of healthy competition and a house of fun!

But Franzi and Valeria’s biggest contribution to our family is, of course, their help with our son. Looking after Nick isn’t always easy, but they always rise to the challenge—whatever it may happen to be. From dealing with public meltdowns to tackling some of the intense hygiene challenges that accompany Nick’s autism, these ladies never bat an eye. Their can-do attitude and deep commitment to helping Nick progress is apparent in everything they do. The level of care they provide to Nick—and the patience with which they do it—is truly astounding. For this reason above any other, we are nominating Valeria and Franzi as APEX Care Professionals of the Year!

The Spagnoletti Family