A Father’s Role in Self-Acceptance: A Story That Speaks to the Heart

Disclaimer: This article covers gender identity, medical procedures, and real-life experiences, which may be sensitive for some readers. Please proceed with an open mind and respect for individual journeys.

Parents are major contributors to a child’s growth—role models for some, ruin for others—and this is a universal truth, an inescapable reality one cannot overlook. Regardless of one’s innate capabilities, characters, or nature, the role parents play in their child’s life can make or break them. There’s just no denying there.

Everyone Needs a ‘Father’ Figure

Blessed are those children who have parental figures offering them opportunities to grow into respectable and headstrong individuals by becoming living examples for them. One such figure is Darwin Del Fabro. The fact that parents play a key role in one’s journey to finding their true self is quite evident in Del Fabro’s life. Born as a male, Del Fabro today has embraced their identity as a woman and it was all possible because of their father.

Del Fabro embarked on a journey that often leaves people alone. This fear of isolation and the feeling of not being ‘accepted’ by society, forces many to not embrace their true selves, their true identity. But Darwin had their father beside them throughout their journey. They underwent a Gender Reassignment Surgery in Brazil and it was their father who instilled in them the courage, and more importantly, the values that one needs to come out stronger from a life-altering decision.

“…as I rest and recover from my final surgery—the reassignment surgery—I find myself reflecting on the profound lessons my dad taught me about manhood and, ultimately, about being true to myself,” stated Del Fabro while looking back to their experience in Brazil.

They further acknowledged their father’s unwavering support, “In the times leading up to my surgery, my dad was my rock. He wasn’t just there to help me heal physically; he was an unwavering source of support, reminding me of the importance of being proud of every step I took along this path. His presence showed me that true strength comes from vulnerability and unwavering love. He embodies a brand of manhood that resonates with love for all, respect for different cultures, and a commitment to equality.”

In a world with stringent gender roles, coming out has turned into a source of embarrassment and something that is widely frowned upon. And the lack of support from one’s biggest support system, one’s parents, does not make things easy. This is where Darwin’s father sets an example. An open-minded individual, who did not let his child fall into the grasp of traditional gender norms.

Darwin has time and time again, discussed how their father was not a stereotypical man, demonstrating the old and worn-out ‘male’ values. He embraced his masculinity and never turned away from the elements of femininity embedded in him.

“My father embodies a brand of manhood that resonates with love for all, respect for different cultures, and a commitment to equality.”

On multiple occasions, Del Fabro has been seen discussing how important a role their father played in their journey, in the following words, “Growing up, my dad represented a kind of masculinity that defied stereotypes. He was not just a strong figure; he was a man of compassion, respect, and acceptance. He showed me that to be a good man is to be open-minded and to embrace diversity—not just in others, but within oneself. In a world that often tries to box us in, my father taught me the value of thinking outside the box, of breaking down barriers, and challenging societal norms.”

Values Matter Most

A general perception about individuals undergoing gender transition is that they would erase their past or adopt a new identity entirely. Contrary to this prevalent belief, Del Fabro remained firm and stuck by the values their father instilled in them.

They stated, “I chose to keep my name, Darwin, holding on to the pride I feel about my journey. My past is not a burden; it’s a testament to my resilience and the experiences that shaped me. The process of becoming who I am today reflects the belief that authenticity is an ongoing journey, one that can and should be celebrated.”

While discussing this very aspect of their life, Del Fabro stated, “My father’s teachings empower me to celebrate my femininity, but they also encourage me to acknowledge the complexity of my journey. Being authentic to oneself is a process that doesn’t end; it’s a daily commitment to growth, reflection, and kindness.”

It was Darwin’s father’s steadfastness in a world sunk into deep waters of stereotypes that offered them the courage to take a step into accepting and being proud of their true gender, a woman.

“In a society that sometimes pushes back against these values, my dad stands firm, signaling to me that being a man means more than adhering to traditional roles; it means being genuine and open-hearted.”

Staying True to the Roots

As Darwin navigates this next chapter of their life, they hope to carry forward their dad’s legacy of compassion and strength. “My name, Darwin, will forever symbolize not just the transformation I’ve undergone but the evolution of how I view manhood, womanhood, and the beautiful spectrum in between. I embrace my past, understanding that it informs my future, while I strive to be the best version of myself.”

They hold fast to the belief that authenticity is a journey with no finish line as explained to them by their father. Darwin talks about their ever-going journey in the following words, “I am on a path filled with discovery, pride, and enduring hope that, just like evolution, the process of being true to oneself is a vibrant, ongoing adventure. That’s the legacy I cherish, and it’s one I hope to share with the world.”

If it hadn’t been for their father, Darwin might have never been able to slip into their true gender with such ease, pride, and joy. Indeed, a father’s support can change the entire ballgame for an individual. Even the toughest of challenges turn into achievable milestones with the right kind of support by one’s side and Darwin’s story is a perfect example.