Mark Anthony Stephens says one thing, then does another. His own words show it best.

In an April 11, 2025 OFW message, Mark wrote:

“I want to express how much I miss Liam and Nathan. It has been a challenging 16 months, and I am committed to doing everything I can to be present in their lives.”

But the record tells a different story. For 16 months (it’s been

has been active for 102 weeks and 5 days.

he’s been restrained from contacting the boys), he has refused the one simple step that would restore his ability to see them: completing the court-ordered evaluations. No commitment. No action. Just more excuses.

He continued:

“Unfortunately, I’ve learned that the required courses must be taken in person, and my financial situation has been strained due to the shutdown of my business, which has made it difficult to fulfill these obligations.”

This claim of financial strain might sound convincing—until you look at his spending. Mark has posted photos with not one but two premium pickleball paddles, each costing over $150. He pleads poverty when it comes to his children, but somehow always finds the money for expensive toys.

Mark also wrote:

“I’m actively working on rebuilding my life, but I am facing challenges, including worsening glaucoma, which affects my ability to work.”

He says he can’t see well enough to work, yet somehow, he sees the pickleball court just fine. He says glaucoma prevents him from earning money, but it doesn’t prevent him from upgrading gear and showing it off on social media.

Finally, he wrote:

“I would greatly appreciate any help you can provide in allowing me to see Liam, whether through FaceTime or other means. Additionally, I would love to be at Nathan’s graduation and hope we can find a way to make that happen.”

Here’s the truth: Mark is restrained from contacting the boys under a No Contact order protecting them from him. That order wasn’t created out of thin air — it came after repeated violations, manipulations, and direct harm. The court gave him a clear, simple path to restore contact: complete the required evaluations, follow treatment recommendations, and show accountability.

But instead of taking those steps, he chose excuses, distractions, and paddles worth more than his monthly child support obligation. The courts didn’t block him—his own refusal to comply did.

His email is full of soft words and pleas. His Facebook page is full of selfies and paddles. And in between? Silence when it comes to his children’s actual needs.

Mark says he wants to be present. But until he chooses responsibility over recreation, the only thing he’s truly present for is himself.