After years of dreaming about fatherhood, Shaun Resnik made history in March 2022 by welcoming his son, Eli, becoming a single father through surrogacy. As a gay man navigating parenthood on his own, Resnik anticipated the journey would be challenging but was determined to pursue it. Inspired by his own close bond with his parents, he longed to create the same connection with a child of his own, making every obstacle along the way feel worthwhile.

Resnik began his path to fatherhood by joining local surrogacy groups on Facebook, where he eventually met Carla Pincombe. At the time, Pincombe was acting as a surrogate for another couple, but over months of shared experiences and support, a strong friendship developed between her and Resnik. After three disappointing setbacks with other potential surrogates, Pincombe agreed to carry his baby. The next step was securing an egg donor, and Resnik found Bree, a mother of two who generously agreed to help make his dream a reality.

Navigating the strict Victorian Fertility regulations in Australia presented another challenge. Mandatory interviews assessed everything from his financial stability to his social network, ensuring the well-being of the surrogate, her existing children, and the future child. Resnik described the process as exhaustive, with “nothing off the table,” but he persevered, knowing it was necessary to move forward safely and ethically. After years of waiting and scrutiny, he was finally approved to proceed with surrogacy.

The long journey culminated with Eli’s birth in March 2022, bringing Resnik immense joy. Since then, he has been fully immersed in the experience of newborn life, discovering that it exceeded even his highest expectations. Along the way, he also found a partner who has joined him in raising Eli, completing his vision of a full and loving household. Today, Resnik’s home is bustling with two dogs, a baby, and a supportive partner—a dream realized after years of perseverance.

Now, Resnik uses his experience to inspire other single people to pursue parenthood. His advice is simple yet powerful: “Don’t wait to get your ducks in a line, there are no ducks!” He encourages others to “make your own magic” and reminds them that the surrogacy journey is a “marathon, not a sprint.” Resnik’s story stands as a testament to determination, patience, and the belief that dreams of family can be achieved against the odds.