Woman honors stepdad who raised her with baby's name — and his reaction shows what it means to him

The role of a stepfather is often overlooked. Yet, for many children growing up, they are more than just their parent's partner. They become a pillar of guidance and a source of love. They come into an already-established family and some of them embrace the bond so much that they end up leaving a mark. These stepfathers are known for offering their shoulder and a listening ear without expecting anything in return. The silent sacrifice was honored by a stepdaughter, Gretchen Harrison—who goes by @Gretchen_Harrison on TikTok—in the most beautiful way possible.

In the heartfelt video shared by Harrison, her parents can be seen welling up after they realize that she had named her baby after her stepfather. "POV: Naming my last baby after the man that stepped up to raise," read the overlay text of the video. Harrison's parents walked into the hospital room and looked at the crib and the name tag just to realize that she had chosen the same name as her stepfather for her last baby. The mother is seen gasping while the stepfather is happily looking at the baby before realizing that the nametag reads his name. He then starts tearing up and steps forward to hug his stepdaughter. 

The wholesome video has garnered over 1 million views on the platform. Moreover, people in the comments were moved by the adorable reaction of the parents," wrote @bouvelee. Also, many share their own stories in the comments. "I named my son after my stepdad who raised me since I was 5. He just passed away this July. He will always be my dad and I'm so glad my kids had him as their Papa," added @kbaker1123. "My dad, who adopted me, passed away when I was six months pregnant and my son has his middle name. I wanted to surprise him, but I know he was so happy looking down," expressed @mariahtayylorrr. "The reactions are so beautiful and priceless. Pure joy and love, congratulations," wrote @diana.pasalic. 

Families breaking apart can be challenging for every member, especially for children. However, some new partners, with their magic of words and efforts, successfully win over the kids. In another sweet story, a girl named Anyston is seen honoring her stepfather at his wedding with her mother, as seen in the video shared by Conscious Cannan (@consciouscanaan) on TikTok.

In the video, the little girl appreciates her stepfather and thanks him for the happiness he has brought in her and her mother's life. The girl's words come straight from the heart and leave everyone in the room teary-eyed. The video begins with the host inviting the little girl on stage. "We have one more person who has a surprise for her mama. Anyston, take it away," she says at the beginning of her speech. "He is the best stepdaddy I ever had," she adds. Needless to say, her words really moved the newlywed couple.

You can follow Gretchen Harrison (@Gretchen_Harrison) on TikTok for more family and lifestyle content.