TV star Elizabeth Vargas announced she will be leaving ABC News and 20/20 at the end of its 40th season, after she decided "to pursue new ventures," according to ABC News president James Goldston. Now, Elizabeth exclusively told Closer Weekly she has much to be grateful for and proud of — including sons Zachary, 14, and Samuel, 11, with ex-husband Marc Cohn.

“I’m just proud every day to have this life, to have my children. I think part of being a productive, happy person is to always be grateful,” Elizabeth told Closer. A reporter at the network for 21 years and co-anchor of 20/20 for 14, her announcement surprised those who have followed her career and appreciated her openness about her struggles with anxiety and alcoholism.

The past few years have been challenging for her, especially after her 2014 revelation that she’d entered rehab. Elizabeth landed back on her feet. She continued co-hosting 20/20 and published Between Breaths: A Memoir of Panic and Addiction. And she aims to focus on her kids now more than ever. “The best way I can teach my sons is by being a strong woman and leading by example,” she told Closer.

For more on Elizabeth, pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now — and be sure to sign up for our newsletter for more exclusive news!