Mom wants to give son with Down syndrome to foster care, so dad decides to raise baby all on his own

 probability was low, but still. You wanted a child, so you took responsibility for it. After all, there are many options: autism, cerebral palsy, genetic mutations … And Down Syndrome is not the worst, as I learned later.”

That very same night, Evgeny began his research on Down syndrome.

“I learned that in Europe, people with Down Syndrome are well-socialized, can live and work independently,” he said. “But the decision I had already made was not influenced by that.”

For the new father, leaving his son simply wasn’t an option. Sadly, though, his wife didn’t feel the same.

“At no time did I think of leaving my son in an orphanage, that would be inhumane,” he said. He and his wife eventually separated, and now Evengy raises Misha alone.

He explained: “When a child is born, he asks the outside world: ‘Am I needed here or not?’ And I answer with certainty: ‘Son, you are needed!’ Being with him, even alone, is a normal act for a normal man. I emphasize—I am a normal man, not some kind of hero.”

It’s Evegny’s aim to raise awareness concerning Down syndrome, so that no future parent believes giving birth to a child with the condition is a punishment or hurdle that can’t be overcome.

He told Bored Panda: “I want all the articles about Mishka and me that are being published now to convey that idea to society and instill it. And I also want to support, inspire with my example those people who are or will be in the same situation as me. 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!”