Every day, babies are born across the globe with unique traits that make them special. While every baby is beautiful and deserves love, some parents sadly don’t understand this and may choose not to keep their child just because they’re different.
33-year-old Evgeny Anisimov is determined to prove that children with Down syndrome deserve just as much love and care as any other child. After Misha’s birth and Down syndrome diagnosis, Evgeny’s wife chose to leave. Evgeny took on the responsibility of raising Misha alone. They learned about Misha’s condition just moments after his birth when a doctor informed them of the diagnosis.
Evgeny shared his feelings saying: “I remember that upon learning that my son has Down Syndrome, I left the hospital and cried, but not for long. 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. Everything happened as I planned, my son was born. But the child is special, his life and future destiny are already very significant.
And I’m roaring here! This is some kind of selfishness! Is it not fair? No, it is my responsibility. You did not have an amniocentesis—it is clear that the 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.”
The night he found out, Evgeny started researching Down syndrome. He said,“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.”
Evgeny was committed to standing by his son, but unfortunately, his wife didn’t share the same sentiment. He stated,“At no time did I think of leaving my son in an orphanage, that would be inhumane.” After parting ways with his wife, Evgeny now takes care of Misha by himself.
Evgeny said, “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.” Evgeny’s goal is to spread understanding about Down syndrome, so parents don’t see having such a child as a burden or something that can’t be managed.
Evgeny 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!”
I truly believe that people like Evgeny deserve all the praise and recognition. He’s a true inspiration, and Misha is fortunate to have such a loving father.
If you’re inspired by this dad’s dedication and love for his son, share this story with others to celebrate his commitment!