Dave's Story: A Father's Heartache
Dave and his partner Sarah were overjoyed when they found out they were expecting twins. As the due date approached, Dave eagerly anticipated the moment he'd hold his babies for the first time. However, their joy was tempered by a harsh reality: Dave's employer didn't offer paternal leave, and he had no access to paid family leave.
When Sarah went into labor two weeks early, Dave rushed to the hospital, his heart racing with excitement and worry. After 18 grueling hours, their beautiful daughters, Emma and Olivia, were born. Dave spent a precious few hours with his new family before the cruel clock forced him back to work.
For the next several weeks, Dave lived a painful double life. During the day, he went through the motions at work, his mind constantly on his struggling partner and newborn daughters at home. At night, he returned home exhausted, trying to support Sarah who was overwhelmed caring for two infants while recovering from a difficult delivery.
"I felt like I was failing everyone," Dave shared, his voice breaking. "My girls needed me, Sarah needed me, but I also needed to keep my job to support them. No parent should have to make that choice."
ADVOCACY: The Need for Change
Dave's story is not unique. Countless fathers across America face this same heart-wrenching dilemma every day. This is why Dads Unite Progress is advocating fiercely for a comprehensive national paid family leave policy.
We Believe:
What You Can Do:
Together, we can create a future where no father has to choose between their job and being there for their newborn children. Because every family deserves a strong start, and every child deserves to have their dad by their side from day one.