Dominic never imagined a single moment could change the course of his life. The day he found out he was going to be a father, his whole world changed. Dreams of finishing school turned into worries about diapers, bills, and long hours at work. He was only a teenager, and now it felt like he had to grow up overnight.
He thought school was over, but his parents never let him give up: for him and for his baby.
Dominic returned to school with the weight of responsibility looming over him. His teachers noticed, and one in particular told him he didn’t have to choose between being a father and a student. He could be both.
Support poured in. A local family, connected through United Way of Central Maryland, stepped in when Dominic and his girlfriend were preparing for Samuel’s arrival. They brought diapers, baby clothes, and encouragement.
When graduation day came, Dominic stood in his cap and gown, holding Samuel in his arms. The same family who helped him was there, cheering loudly. His teachers clapped. His parents cried, and Dominic smiled for himself and for the little boy in his arms.
When someone asked, “hey Dominic, what did you do?”
“I showed my son what’s possible,” he simply responded.
