One of the greatest joys of Hidden Lake living is the way neighbors become friends—and every new connection adds a little more heart to our community. In this month’s Meet Your Neighbor spotlight, we’re thrilled to introduce the Sehgals: Rachel, Laksh, Nik, and their playful pup, Ollie. Since their move to Hidden Lake in July 2024, this vibrant family has embraced neighborhood life with warmth, curiosity, and a spirit of togetherness that’s already left a meaningful mark.

“I can honestly say this neighborhood is like no other,” Rachel shared. “The people, the community events—we’ve been so grateful for the friendships that have already formed.”

Rachel and Laksh’s journey together began in graduate school in Chicago. However, their paths took them through Toronto, Rochester, Chicago, Ann Arbor, and even Philadelphia before ultimately landing them here long-term. Work brought them here, but it was the nature and neighborly energy of Hidden Lake that made it feel like home.

“I was born and raised in a suburb of Toronto, then moved to Chicago for grad school,” Rachel said. “Laksh was born in India and grew up in Rochester, New York, then worked in Washington, DC, before also moving to Chicago for school. After stops in Ann Arbor and Philadelphia, we’re happy to be back in Michigan—and especially here in Hidden Lake.”

Professionally, both Rachel and Laksh are deeply committed to the well-being of others. Rachel works as a pediatric neurologist, while Laksh is a radiologist. Their work demands empathy, intelligence, and dedication—all traits that shine through in how they live and love as a family.

Watching Nik grow has been one of the Sehgals’ greatest joys. “I admire the curiosity and confidence his little self has shared with us,” Rachel said, smiling. Whether he’s tumbling at gymnastics, running across the soccer field, or enjoying a round of “golf with Daddy,” Nik brings a sense of wonder and joy to every activity. Parenting, for Rachel and Laksh, is a shared journey—marked by support, patience, teamwork, and plenty of laughs along the way.

And of course, there’s Ollie—their playful goldendoodle, who, according to the Sehgals, “chose us.” Ollie has become part of their everyday rhythm, whether it’s a long walk to unwind or simply bringing that goofy, lovable energy only a dog can offer.

When they aren’t working or participating in community activities, the Sehgals love to travel, try new restaurants, and embark on an adventure. “We love to bike, hike, ski—really anything that gets us outside or experiencing something new.” Their favorite destination together is Portugal. A particularly memorable chapter? Backpacking through Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore, and China. They also make frequent visits to Rochester and Toronto to stay connected to their roots. 

But no matter where their adventures take them, it’s the simple joys close to home that fill their daily lives with meaning. Since settling in, the Sehgals have embraced the casual, close-knit rhythm of Hidden Lake life. Summer weekend mornings often start at the Brighton Farmers Market, followed by playtime at Imagination Station, and end with spontaneous neighbor meetups at the beach. “We’ve made wonderful friends here,” they shared. “We’re always trading info about local kids’ events, hosting dinners, or planning a last-minute weekend brunch. It’s the kind of place where people actually show up for one another—and that makes living here so much fun.”

Their partnership is as grounded as it is affectionate—something that’s clearly evident in the way they talk about each other. “I admire the kindness, love, and respect Laksh shares with the people he cares about,” Rachel said. “We’re a team—not just in everyday tasks, but in life.” Laksh chimed in with equal admiration: “Rachel is smart, strong, gorgeous—and somehow still laughs at all my dad jokes. Her ability to manage work, family, and friendships, all while being an amazing mother to Nik, inspires me every day.”

Their advice to anyone new in the neighborhood? “Attend community events, introduce yourself, and join our Facebook community page,” Rachel shared. “There are always community members who are willing to provide advice and mentions of ongoing events within the community and more broadly in the surrounding cities.”

As the publisher of Stroll Hidden Lake, it brings me so much joy to spotlight a family like the Sehgals. Their story reflects what makes this community truly special: kind-hearted neighbors, meaningful connections, and people who genuinely support one another. Whether they’re baking banana bread, watching a rerun of The Office, or strolling the trails with Ollie, the Sehgals embody the kind of warmth and authenticity that turn neighbors into friends—and a house into a home.

Looking ahead, they’re excited to deepen their roots in Hidden Lake. “We’ve only been here a year,” Laksh shared, “but it already feels like we’re part of something really special.” With each event, introduction, and Ollie-led walk, the Sehgals continue building not just a home—but a life grounded in community, connection, and the shared joy of everyday moments.