Ethan's Story

Ethan* wasn’t sure what to think when he first found out he was going to be a father. He felt uncertain and, if he was really honest with himself, he felt afraid. His own dad had not been around much for him when he was growing up. He told himself that if he ever became a father, he would be different. Now, he was going to be a father and his first thought was to find a way to escape or disappear. The responsibility for raising another human being seemed too overwhelming.

Ethan was grateful when he found out that Life Forward offers parenting education classes to help parents prepare to take on their new roles. One of the best things about the Upward classes Ethan appreciated was that there were other men there preparing to be dads and some who were dads already. Listening to the experienced dads sharing their stories of fatherhood really encouraged Ethan. Talking to the other guys who were preparing to be first-time dads was also helpful to Ethan as he realized they were experiencing a lot of the same emotions and feelings as he had. He even got the phone numbers of some of the other dads and they agreed to text one another for mutual support.

Each father who graduated from Upward received a “dad bag”. The crossbody bag included items that the men can take to the hospital for the delivery like chapstick, deodorant, candy, a gift card, and childproofing safety items. They also received a children’s booklet titled The Dad Who Never Gave Up which is based on the parable of the prodigal son. Additionally, included in the “dad bag” were pamphlets about the importance of an involved father and things to do to keep your child safe.

At the end of the seven weeks of Upward classes, Ethan shared with the Life Forward staff; “We really learned a lot and we feel prepared.”

Because of your prayers and support of Life Forward, Life Forward has served over 120 dads! Like Ethan, these men are growing into their roles as fathers. The education they receive through Upward, enables them to learn skills that can help them become successful dads and have a positive impact in their children’s lives. Through the connections they are making with other dads, they find encouragement and support.

Thank you for partnering with Life Forward to help women and their families make life-affirming decisions through God’s love.

*Pseudonym used to protect the client’s privacy.