One man from Baltimore, Maryland, dreamed of becoming a dad, but he faced many challenges on his journey to fatherhood. As a single gay man, there were many hurdles he had to overcome, but it was worth it when he met a little boy who changed his life forever.
David Marshall was once just a man who longed to become a parent. He imagined having a little one calling him dad and knew he would do whatever he could to make it a reality.
The former opera singer had to fulfill a list of requirements before being considered for adoption, but none scared him. After completing the lengthy documentation, David waited for news about his application. The hopeful dad grew anxious and impatient until the phone eventually rang.
He Was Ready to Be a Father
David was eager when he received the call about a little boy named Josiah. He had been waiting for two years and had already prepared the nursery for the child he believed would come.
The dad-to-be couldn’t wait to fill the baby’s room with love and warm memories. He discovered that an abandoned two-week-old boy needed a home, and he was ready to receive him.
He remembered the life-changing phone call and felt overwhelmed with different emotions. David’s heart was pounding in his chest, and he couldn’t breathe.
The dad knew his adoption experience was unique after sharing it on Facebook Live—David came to a surprising realization that changed the trajectory of his life.
The First Time He Met His Son
Despite his heightened emotions after the call, David couldn’t wait to meet the boy who quickly became the joy of his life. He recalled their first meeting:
“I was so instantly in love. Head over heels in love with him. It just was like we knew we belonged to one another.”
They Were the Perfect Match
There were countless obstacles, but David’s wish came true, and he couldn’t be happier. He had the child he had always longed for, and they were a perfect match.
Photos from the dad’s social media reveal their countless adventures, and the smile on Josiah’s face displays his absolute joy.
David’s adoption story didn’t end with him because the selfless father soon realized other couples and single people like him needed help in their journeys to parenthood.
The dad knew his adoption experience was unique after sharing it on Facebook Live—David came to a surprising realization that changed the trajectory of his life.
Passionate about Helping Others Adopt
The dad knew he needed to advocate for adoption in his community. He used social media to assist people looking for ways to start their own families. He said:
“I was blessed to be able to adopt, so now I need to educate others. It’s about passing on your blessings to others.”
David eventually started a non-profit organization called “Journey to Josiah” in honor of his precious son, who he formally adopted in 2017.
His Story Gave People Hope
Helping people adopt quickly became the proud father’s mission and a full-time job. The people he assisted stated that his success story gave them hope. He provided helpful resources, answered tricky questions, and connected families with adoption grants.
The dad also used his online presence to assist hopeful parents by posting insightful videos on his YouTube talk show. David knew adopting a child was no simple task, but he believed it was possible with the right attitude and determination.
The Online Reaction
The online community was in awe of the dad’s courage and desire to break down barriers. Many people thanked him for his contribution and noted the significant impact his actions had:
“Your beautiful son will hold your hand for a little while, but he will hold your heart for a lifetime.”
– (Robert Lee Harris) November 19, 2022
“So so SO awesome!!! This absolutely made my weekend! Hugs and love to you both! SO proud of you two! Keep going!” – (Karis Amanda) August 22, 2022
“So proud of you and taking the responsibility of parenting seriously. So many men don’t realize how much they are needed in the shaping of our young men’s lives. It’s so important, and I’m so glad that you stepped up to the plate.”
– (Janet E. Merrick) August 21, 2022
David’s story is a testament to the power of advocacy and the potential for a single person to make a significant difference in the lives of others. His work is inspiring and helps to create a brighter future for adopted children and their families.
The father revealed his desire to adopt again and hoped he could welcome a daughter into his care. We wish David and his little family all the best and many happy years together.
Click here for another inspiring adoption story. One man knew he had lots of love to give and wanted to raise a needy child. He never imagined how much his life would change until he met a non-verbal boy that took up a permanent place in his heart.