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SaveEvan Handler on Fatherhood
By all accounts, Evan Handler, costar of Sex and the City: The Movie, shouldn't be a father. After battling deadly acute myeloid leukemia in his 20s, Handler learned he might be sterile. Ironic, considering his Sex and the City character, Harry Goldenblatt, also had pregnancy issues with his wife, Charlotte. Yet today, Evan is the proud dad to Sofia, 17 months, who was conceived naturally -- on the first try! The actor spoke to us about the good news (and a little of the bad news) or parenthood.
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The Miracle of Life
I had lived most of my adult like thinking that having children was an impossibility. So to have conception happen almost instantly was extraordinary, I don't know if you write it off to luck or if this is confirmation that Elisa, my wife, and I are supposed to be together. And that there was a life that needed to happen from our union. It sure makes you wonder.
Delivery Man
The delivery room was surreal because it was so mundane; an amazing thing is happening, yet there you are in this stark room. I was dashing around taking pictures. I wasn't expecting to take so many, but there wasn't really anything else for me to do! We have wonderful photos -- of the baby being born and being held up by the doctors in this incredible light.
You Can Never Be Too Sure
My wife says Sofia has expressions just like mine. Of course, I still wonder if I should go get the DNA test to make sure she is mine at all. I discussed this with my wife before the baby was born, and she was like, "Fine, you want to do that, yes." It was no joke to her. I guess I took that as my DNA test.
Mother Dearest
The most extraordinary part has been witnessing the delight that my wife has in our child. Seeing her with the baby is so beautiful. I love Sofia, and I look forward to getting to know her better, but the most miraculous thing about it has been seeing my wife.
Viva L'Italia
My wife is from Italy. Sofia is going to learn much more Italian than English, because my wife speaks Italian to her, and the nanny we hired speaks Italian. Sofia also spent a month or two in Italy already and will be going back soon.
The Good and Bad News of Fatherhood
I had a lot of mixed feelings during the first year of Sofia's life. Honestly, I have struggled in ways that I think men do, but it does not get talked about. My world has shrunk a bit, and I find that difficult. But the other side of it is that it's amazing to have this creature living with us. We're having a great time with her, and she is lovely.
Originally published in the June 2008 issue of American Baby magazine.
