Simplify the following text for a Grade 11 native English-speaking person.
Original: However , since Leahâ s speech began to improve , partially due to a cochlear implant , Hopkins is now Alex and Leah 's little green animated sidekick who loves to swim , paint , lift large pieces of fruit , and eat unsuspecting flies .
Simplified: Alas , since Leahâ s speech is developing on her own , Hopkins is now very happy being a little green animated sidekick who loves to swim , paint , lift large pieces of fruit and eat unsuspecting flies .