Getting custody of a child isn’t as easy as it may seem. The preferences of the child and the wishes of each parent aren’t the only things that are considered when determining custody. Each parents’ income, home environment, mental health, and parenting skills are some of the many factors involved.
In most cases, even when a child is given custody to the so-called “best” parent, much of the time, the child and at least one of the parents isn’t completely happy with the decision that was made. Unfortunately, custody cases are never black and white, and often, there may never be a decision that makes all parties fully content
26-year-old tool salesman, Joseph Whelan, was one of many parents who had to face a custody battle with his ex. In the end, he was the one who lost custody of his 4-year-old son. The legal decision shattered his heart.
“I look at him, and he just lights up my life. Being a father is the best thing ever… Something just changed inside of me. My whole perspective on life changed completely,” the father admits.
While a part of Joseph’s heart was missing, he still continued working hard at his job and pursuing one of his biggest passions: singing. That’s when he made the decision to appear on X Factor UK in 2012. By auditioning on the show, Joseph would not only be making one of his wildest dreams come true. He’d also be doing it to make his son proud, proving to his 4-year-old that he too can do anything he wants in life.
In his audition, we watch as Joseph timidly walks on stage, despite being tatted-up and muscular. The ladies in the audience begin to cheer and whistle so loudly that a judge has to yell over the commotion just to ask for Joseph’s name! Clearly, the young man is already well-liked.
Shortly into his conversation with one of the judges, Joseph mentions his biggest reason for following through with his audition. “I’ve got a 4-year-old son as well, and I want to do the best I can for him and give him the best life I can,” he says. The audience goes from rambunctious to teary-eyed in an instant.
After Joseph’s short yet emotional introduction, the audience is surprised by Joseph’s energetic choice of song for his audition: “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin. Nobody, not even the judges, expected Joseph’s voice to be so robust and raspy, especially after his shy and emotional introduction.
Then after the performance is when things take yet another turn. From backstage, Joseph’s 4-year-old son comes running out with the biggest smile on his face to greet his daddy on stage after he received big yes’s from each of the four judges! Joseph breaks down crying on stage, again showing his vulnerable side. The moment is so sweet and moving.
“[My son] is the best thing in my life,” the 26-year-old father says as he gives his son a big hug.
Watch the audition until the end to see the beautiful heart-to-heart moment between him and his son! Joseph is a great father and role model.