At the centre of Mike's world are his three boys. "They're my boys. I love them to bits. They're my family," Mike says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
For the last 21 years, Mike, who's now 60, has devoted his life to caring for foster children.
Unable to have children of his own, Mike was 39 when he first became a foster carer, alongside his now ex-wife.
Thrown into the deep end, at one-point Mike ended up with eight children in his care. "We had six in nappies at one stage," Mike reflects.
But it was in that moment, Mike found his life calling.
"Changing nappies at two in the morning, that's what inspired me to quit my full-time job and become a full-time carer."
And it's a decision Mike has never regretted. "Children need time. That's why my career went."
Over his lifetime, Mike says he's conservatively cared for 100 children, including long-term, short-term, respite and crisis care placements.
But it's three long-term placements that remain close to Mike's heart.
Mike's now 20-year-old son came into Mike's life when he was just one.
And shortly after, his twin half-brothers, now 16, joined Mike's family when they were only two weeks old.
While all three boys have faced many struggles throughout their lives, Mike has always been their rock.
"I'm their dad, and I'll be there for as long as they need me to be," Mike says proudly.
I'm their dad, and I'll be there for as long as they need me to be
For the last seven years, Mike has been supported by Wesley Mission's foster care program, Wesley Dalmar.
And while Mike has been there for his boys, Wesley Mission caseworker, Kim has been there for him.
"Kim's a very caring person and he's been very supportive of me and for the boys.
"And when we went through some hard times, I've survived because Kim's been my go-to guy. He's been my rock," Mike shares.
"With Kim, we've had seven years of consistent contact and understanding.
"That makes for better outcomes for children."
Could you be a foster carer like Mike?
To find out more about becoming a foster carer visit wesleymission.org.au or call 6552 0277.