As we mark nearly a year since their inspiring journey captured the nation’s attention, the Smith family has expanded, showcasing that love truly knows no boundaries.
For Michael and Andrew Smith, love is the cornerstone of their family and has guided their remarkable path, one unexpected step at a time. Since we last featured their story, the Smiths have gained national recognition for their incredible experience as two dads who united six siblings through adoption. Their narrative resonated with many, leading to invitations to the White House and coverage from major outlets like Good Morning America and People Magazine. Yet, beyond the accolades, their family continues to evolve—both in size and spirit.
An Unexpected New Arrival
Their family became even more meaningful when, shortly after their visit to the White House, Michael and Andrew received a life-changing call from a local hospital. The birth parents of their adopted children welcomed a seventh child and, knowing their baby would be cherished, provided the hospital staff with the Smiths’ contact information.
“She was born premature and faced several complications, spending a month and a half in the NICU,” Michael shared. “Daniel and I were there every day—holding her and ensuring she felt safe and loved from the very beginning.”
By May 2024, the adoption was finalized, officially making the Smiths a family of nine. Their home now resonates with even more laughter, milestones, and the vibrant energy of seven children whose lives have been profoundly impacted by the strength of family.
A Supportive Community
Managing a household of nine is no small feat, but Michael and Andrew attribute their success to the unwavering support of their community, helping them navigate school schedules, extracurricular activities, and everything in between.
“We’re incredibly fortunate,” Andrew said. “My parents live close by and always step in when we need extra help. Plus, the moms from our local PFLAG chapter joke that our kids have 36 moms because everyone pitches in to assist.”
This support became crucial when Hurricane Helene flooded their home in September 2024. Yet, the very community that celebrated their growing family rallied around them during this challenging time.
“Our kids’ teachers, the adoption resource center, PFLAG moms, and even acquaintances showed up to help us,” Michael recalled. “They assisted us in cleaning out our home, rebuilding, and reminded us just how much love surrounds our family.”
Facing the World as Two Dads
While their home is filled with love, the Smiths remain aware that not everyone is accustomed to families like theirs.
“When just one of us takes the kids to the store, people often assume the other parent is home sick,” Michael chuckled. “I even had someone insist that they couldn’t all be mine, convinced I must run a daycare.”
Most of the time, they take these misconceptions in stride, attributing them to outdated views on family. However, when traveling through less accepting areas, they become more cautious.
“Our everyday life is wonderful. But when we’re on the road, especially in rural regions, we’re more alert,” Michael explained. “We’ve had to talk to our older kids about safety—when to disregard comments, when to walk away, and when to inform us if something feels off.”
Regrettably, their children have already encountered moments of ignorance, including classmates making hurtful assumptions about having two dads.
“One of our kids had another student say, ‘Your dads are gay, so you must be gay too,’ as if it works like that,” Michael said. “It was a valuable teaching moment, but you wish they didn’t have to experience such things at a young age.”
Staying Strong in Florida
With ongoing legislative challenges to LGBTQ+ rights, many families contemplate relocating to more welcoming states. However, for the Smiths, choosing to stay and be visible is part of their commitment to advocacy.
“I grew up in rural Minnesota. Ignorance exists everywhere,” Michael stated. “Leaving isn’t the solution for us. Being involved, staying engaged, and ensuring our kids know they are safe and loved—this is what matters.”
Andrew actively participates in their local PFLAG chapter, and both dads strive to instill in their children the understanding that their family is not only valid but should be celebrated.
“Our kids fear that someone will tear our family apart,” Michael noted. “When they hear anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, it worries them. So we focus on what we can control, reassure them, and continue to show up.”
Finding Joy in the Chaos
Despite the challenges, the Smiths wouldn’t trade their life for anything. The joy of raising their seven children far outweighs the negativity they sometimes face.
“There are countless moments that make us laugh until we cry,” Michael shared. “One of the kids will say something completely random in the car, or we’ll gather around the dinner table swapping stories from our day, and it just reaffirms why we do this.”
Being dads is one of the greatest joys of their lives, and no amount of hate can diminish that.
When asked why they chose to adopt a large sibling group, their answer is simple: “Because they needed us, and they’re absolutely worth it.” In a home filled with laughter, bedtime stories, and unconditional love, one truth remains clear: love creates a family. And the Smiths have an abundance of it to share.
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In summary, the Smiths exemplify the power of love and community support in overcoming challenges while creating an unbreakable family bond.