Richard Johnson, 21, initially didn’t want kids due to his family’s experiences. But when he met the mother of his daughter, his perspective changed: “We decided we wanted children, and I wanted to provide them with the life I lacked.”

However, he was terrified when he learned of the pregnancy: “I had no idea what it meant to be an involved father.” A month after their daughter’s birth, her mother left, possibly due to postpartum depression. Richard became a single father.

In a heartfelt letter to the “Life of Dad” online community, he shared his journey of learning to be a dad, including mastering skills like hair braiding. Richard started a support group for single parents and moved in with a friend, creating a strong support system.

His story received widespread attention and support, with over 12,000 likes and 3,300 likes on his Facebook posts. Richard’s experience resonates with many fathers, highlighting the challenges and joys of single parenthood. “Life of Dad” became his lifeline during the difficult times.

Today, Richard cherishes his role as a father: “I want to give her the best possible start in life. She is both my best friend and my shadow.”