This Father’s Day, we caught up with Bradley Lam, one of SPD’s occupational therapists and a new father, about the joys and challenges of parenthood, the meaning of caregiving, and the small everyday moments that matter most.
On Fatherhood
What was it like becoming a father for the first time?
It was surreal, exciting and humbling all at once. Alongside the joy came a steep learning curve – from changing diapers to figuring out how to soothe a crying baby. Even with preparation, the reality of caring for a newborn was very different from what I expected.
What has fatherhood changed you?
The biggest change has been shifting both my mindset and routines. Before having a child, my wife and I could make plans very freely. Now, our days revolve around our daughter’s needs, even for simple things like going out. Fatherhood has taught me to move from asking, “What do I want?” to “What does my family need?”
What’s one especially meaningful moment you’ve had so far?
Managing several solo-parenting nights while my wife was overseas was a big moment for me. It was challenging, but it gave me confidence and reminded me that my daughter feels safe and secure with me.
On Work and Caregiving
Can you briefly describe your role as an occupational therapist at SPD?
I help people return to activities that are meaningful or essential to them – from daily tasks like dressing or taking public transport to work, leisure and family routines. At its core, occupational therapy is about helping people participate more fully in the things that matter most.
What motivates you in supporting persons with disabilities?
I believe everyone deserves the best quality of life possible. A disability shouldn’t prevent someone from doing the things they need or want to do, and even small gains can bring a strong sense of satisfaction and independence. It’s meaningful to support people as they work towards those goals.
How has your work at SPD shaped your view of caregiving?
My work has shown me that caregiving is both a choice and a commitment. Seeing caregivers continue to show up despite the demands has shaped how I approach fatherhood – to do the same with patience, resilience and care.
Where work and fatherhood meet
Has your work with clients and families influenced how you parent?
Very much so. My work has taught me patience, especially when progress takes time, and that shapes how I parent. Communication matters in both spaces too, whether with clients and families or at home as my wife and I navigate parenting together.
Which skills from your OT practice have been most useful as a father?
One key concept I draw on is the “therapeutic use of self”- using yourself intentionally to build trust and support growth. I apply this in fatherhood by encouraging my daughter, teaching her new things, and paying close attention to her cues when words are not yet there.
Has becoming a parent changed how you relate to the families you support?
Yes. It has deepened my empathy and reminded me how much caregiving asks of a person. I’m now more intentional about understanding families’ perspectives and offering reassurance where I can.
Balancing Work and New Parenthood
How are you balancing work at SPD with being a new dad?
I try to be intentional about setting aside time for both work and family. At work, I stay focused and use time-boxing to stay productive, which helps me be more present at home.
What support has made this transition easier?
It takes a village, and we’re grateful for ours. Our parents, friends, bosses and colleagues have supported us in many ways – from practical help to understanding when family needs come first.
What’s a small, everyday moment with your child that you look forward to?
Fetching my daughter after work and hearing her excited scream before she runs in for a hug. It’s simple, but it means a lot.
If your child could describe you in three words, what do you think they’d say?
Playful, consistent and sleepy – I like to think I model sleep quite well for her.
This Father’s Day, we celebrate fathers like Bradley, who show up with heart – in both the lives they touch at work and the families they hold close at home.