Michael Phelps has achieved many great things in life. His induction into the US Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame is the latest achievement of his life. Many people might consider being the most decorated Olympian of all time as Phelps’ main achievement. But, the American swimmer does not hold a similar opinion.

Instead, he feels being a great father to his three sons will be his biggest feat. A heartwarming incident from before his first son was born, serves as a testament to Phelps putting the correct step forward.

Michael Phelps did not hold anyone else’s babies

Taking a baby in your arms is one of the most heartwarming feelings in the world. The preciousness and fragility of a new life are one to behold. And to top it all off, the smell that comes from a baby! There aren’t many people who would not want to hold a baby in their arms. But there was a time when Michael Phelps stayed away from doing this. Not because he was afraid of them, but because of something else.

Early in his life, Phelps decided he would hold no one else’s babies. It didn’t matter if the baby was of someone from his family or friend, he would always say no. Phelps even declined to get photos clicked with him, holding their baby. And this was because he wanted the first baby to ever be pressed up against him, to be his own.

On May 5th, 2016, Phelps finally did so. Nicole Phelps gave birth to their first son, Boomer. Michael cut the umbilical cord and was handed a cute baby boy wrapped in a warm blanket. Recollecting the day’s memory, Phelps said, “I just kind of stood there. I didn’t think I would be emotional, but it all just sort of hit me. That’s our son. And you suddenly have this new appreciation for what love really is.”

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Nicole and Michael now have three sons together. The boys are named Boomer (6), Beckett (4), and Maverick (2). Michael has been doing his best to make sure he is always there for his sons.

The scariest aspect of being a father for Phelps

Being a parent is not all about spending quality time with your children and providing them with a good life. It also comes with worries about the future and things that may cause them harm. Even the swimming legend, Michael Phelps, is governed by some fears.

The biggest fear of Phelps is teenage suicide. During an interview, Phelps opened up about it and said it scares the h*ll out of him. He mentioned reading about suicides almost daily in the newspaper. Michael also talked about having first-hand experience of stuffing things down and not talking about them. But he wishes no one has to go through anything even remotely similar to what he did.

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Michael is now happier than ever before. Perhaps even happier than when he became the most decorated Olympian. He continues to work as an advocate for mental health. Michael is also trying to provide the youth with the tools necessary to help them realize that it’s okay to talk to someone and ask for help.