Mom decided to give newborn with Down syndrome to foster care—but 'kind' dad's response leaves the internet in tears
Becoming a parent brings significant changes in a person's life. However, for one set of parents, the change was bigger as the doctor told them that their baby had Down syndrome. They got the diagnosis just minutes after the kid's birth back in 2018 and were overwhelmed by it. The mom wanted to give her son up for foster care, as she was scared of what lay ahead for them. But then the dad, Evgeny Anisimov, made a firm decision that changed all their lives, per Bored Panda.
Soon enough, Anisimov became a single dad to his son, Mishka and was determined to give him a good life. He also decided to raise awareness about the condition, per the outlet. "I didn’t know what to do when I learned of the hypothesis that my son had Down Syndrome. I thought my task now was to turn off emotions, ignite thoughts and support my wife because I believed it would be more difficult for her. We were promised the results of the analysis in a few days and until then, I decided not to say anything to her," Anisimov recounted. According to the CDC, Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition diagnosed in the United States. 5,700 babies are born with the condition every year, per data from 2024. Medical advancements have helped increase the life expectancy of people with Down Syndrome.
The dad remembered leaving the hospital and crying when he learned about his son's condition, but he was back soon. "Later, I was a little embarrassed by these tears. In my life, after all, nothing had changed, in general. I was still with two arms, with two legs, my professional knowledge had gone nowhere. My determination, activity, curiosity, and so on—everything was with me." The dad decided that everything had gone as per his plan because his son was born and he was upset with his own "selfishness." The Russian dad added, "I learned that in Europe, people with Down syndrome are well-socialized, can live and work independently. But the decision I had already made was not influenced by that."
The dad felt that his son could still enjoy the sunrise, go out for barbecue and have fun in life. "At no time did I think of leaving my son in an orphanage; that would be inhumane." His wife was not convinced by his decision, so both of them decided to part ways. Anisimov even remarked that he hadn't done anything special by staying with his son. "I emphasize—I am a normal man, not some kind of hero." The dad moved from Moscow and started taking swimming lessons with his son since he was five months old. They also went to a speech therapist. "My son is a very good and open kid, like every other kid of his age; he loves me and it shows."
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The man's mother also helped him with raising Mishka and ensured that he could have some time for himself as well. Anisimov explained that part was a really important one. "I would advise all husbands to help their wives because, although parenting is very interesting, it’s also a very hard thing." The single dad hoped to support and inspire people with his example. "I try to communicate with those who are within reach, I correspond with those who are far away. I hope that those who have difficulties now, as it was for us, read about us. Have no fear! Everything will be fine!" the dad explained. Anisimov shares his journey with his son on Instagram, where he goes by @evgen_tyz.