Netizens are enraged over Myka and James Stauffer, who gave away the custody of their 4-year-old adopted son, Huxley. A few years ago, the YouTube creators went on an international adoption journey and kept fans posted on social media. However, they soon discovered that the kid required more than special attention, which led to them handing him over to another family.
Here are all the details fans need to know about the couple’s decision, which has again ignited major controversy.
Myka and James Stauffer’s controversy explained
The Stauffer family went to China in 2017 and brought to their American home, an adorable Huxley, who was then, 2.5 years old. James and Myka shared every ounce of their international adoption journey on social media, right from legal formalities to their challenges along the way.
In a 2019 interview with Parade, Myka reflected on their adoption decision, citing James to be initially hesitant about it. She shared that she saw Huxley, a kid with special needs, and couldn’t change her mind. As per Myka, the couple also learned about him having a brain tumor. Over the years, the Stauffers’ usual vlogs also began to feature their new family member, garnering a lot of attention.
However, when Huxley turned 4, the couple discovered that the child didn’t just have a brain tumor but had some more medical issues too. According to Myka, he reportedly had sensory and processing disorder, was diagnosed with level 3 autism, and had experienced a stroke in utero. Soon, eagle-eyed fans were quick to see Huxley’s absence from the Stauffers’ YouTube vlogs, and they quickly raised suspicions.
Eventually, in 2020, Myka and James posted a now-deleted YouTube video addressing the child’s absence, citing that he required more special care that they weren’t aware of. (via People) The two claimed they tried to provide Huxley with as much care and medical attention as possible. However, hearing a lot of feedback from medical professionals was “upsetting” for them.
Therefore, the Stauffers decided to give Huxley’s custody to another family, whom they believe will take good care of him. She also revealed in the video that her new mom has done medical training, making her a perfect fit. Albeit, Myka and James’ decision received immense backlash online, as many alleged they had “abandoned” the child.
Meanwhile, some believed the couple had used Huxley to monetize content. Following the massive criticism of their decision, the Stauffers went off social media and stopped posting videos on YouTube. Additionally, Myka shared an apology on Instagram, expressing how heartbroken they were for giving Huxley away. Recently, the Stauffers’ story has become the subject of Max’s docuseries An Update on Our Family.
Originally reported by Shazmeen Navrange on ComingSoon.net.
