Love and overwhelming joy: what fathers say when they hold their newborns (UNICEF Fathers Day campaign 2018)

These photos have been published by UNICEF for their 2018 Fathers Day campaign, focusing on paternity leave.

This is what the fathers said to the photographer. It is the most important message in the world about fatherhood.

(Photo above: Supidej, 20, Bangkok, Thailand. © UNICEF/UN0203758/Zehbrauskas)

“I feel love. I feel I love him so much.”

Somsak, 50, Chiang Mai, Thailand

“Seeing her breathe, seeing her quiet and good, does not compare to anything, that is the indescribable truth. Contact like this skin-to-skin is very father-like.”

Alfonso, Mexico City, Mexico

“I want to be with the baby and do everything with her.”

Jumphon, 27, Chiang Mai, Thailand

“I think it’s good to have skin-to-skin like this. The feeling is hard to explain, I’m just happy.”

Sompong, 28, Chiang Mai, Thailand

“I was happy when I held her for the first time….I want to be with her 24/7.”

Arif, 30, Chiang Mai, Thailand

“The first moment I saw him, my tears welled up. I think he looks like my wife.”

Perapat, 32, Chiang Mai, Thailand

“Skin-to-skin feels a lot different than just holding a baby for a cuddle, it feels a lot more connected, it seems a lot more tranquil and peaceful, you focus a lot more, and appreciate how tiny they really are, […] it’s a nicer feeling, it’s hard to explain actually.”

Jim, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, in Exeter, UK

“I’ve been here every day, I’ve been doing skin-to-skin, it helps him relax, it helps his brain function, I feel this connection with him, we are communicating through skin and our feelings, it’s a true bonding experience, so warm.”

Paul, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, in Exeter, UK

“I’ve been doing the skin-to-skin contact, and giving him lots of cuddles. It’s so incredible to have something so precious so close to you, it’s an overwhelming happiness.”

Alex, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, in Exeter, UK