The child supplies the power but the parents have to do the steering. ~Benjamin Spock
The world of Alfie Patten may never be the same again. The pictures of the 13 year old may look like he is cradling his baby sister,but yet it is his daughter or at least that is what we were told last week.
As of yesterday, the true story remains unclear. Chantelle Stedman, the mother of the new born Maisie Roxanne, is no longer just a 15 year old girl that has given birth; but has the possibility of one of three teenagers being the father of her child.
It sounds like all part of an elaborate television drama or film, but it is true. It has gone so far that the
debate is now whether there should be DNA testing to determine who is the real father.
Does this not sound crazy? The main thing that we can hope for is that Maisie is healthy and is loved and cared for by her family. The newspapers may sensationalise all of this, and the story of three possible fathers will do that.
Alfie Patten and Chantelle Stedman, should be growing up and learning more about themselves and now with all of this happening, they have to grow and mature at a rapid pace because there is someone else to care for and look after.
Just when they are starting to understand their own change comes a massive one. I think they’ve made the right decision to have the child.
However they shouldn’t have to deal with publicists and flashing cameras and journalists looking for their pound of flesh, while politicians and every one else holds them high as an example of society gone wrong.
Monday, February 16th, 2009 and is filed under Thoughts & Questions, Views on News.
Responses are currently closed
Ann Says:
As in a lot of similar cases it will most likely be the grandparent who will assume responsibilty for the care of the child knowing full well the mother has not matured enough emotionally to take on full responsibility.
I would imagine, that although this singular case has got lots of publicity, there are similar cases in every borough in England – and elswhere. The ages may vary slightly, but not much.
Should we really be all that surprised?
Who and what has shaped the sex- saturated society these young people are growing up in?
Who has cared enough to voice concerns, to lobby MPs, to raise questions, to protest?
If role models are lacking in the home, how can schools/ youth leaders help?
If truancy is a problem, what can education boards do to help and encourage children to appreciate the benefits of education – including sex education.
February 19th, 2009 at 10:03 pm