A 15 year-old Canadian boy came out to his dad over Facebook and received a homophobic tirade in response.

Tyler had already come out to his sisters – who were fully supportive – and his mother, who was initially shocked, but now fully supports him. So he decided it was time to inform his dad of his sexuality.

However, when Tyler came out, his dad responded with a homophobic tirade, verbally abusing his son who had just posted a message on Facebook about coming out.

His dad’s first thoughts were about himself and how he would be treated by his friends and colleagues, before claiming that Tyler’s coming out is “worse than death”.

The 15-year-old told The Huffington Post: “I’m hoping there’s still the possibility that he could change, even it takes while. Maybe he could accept me, because that’s all I want… I just want him to be there for me.”

Tyler is currently living with his aunt but is optimistic he might be able to move back in with his parents soon.

Upon receiving the homophobic abuse, Tyler posted a screenshot of the messages and posted them to his Tumblr, detailing what had happened.

“I just wanted to be open about it,” explained Tyler, who didn’t want his last name publicized, “I didn’t want to hide it anymore.”

The positive response he has received on the internet from friends and strangers alike has overwhelmed him.

@tylerblvr I think you have impacted a lot of people with your story. Commend you for your bravery. Be proud of who you are.

— Hoang Truong (@ItsHoang_Truong) March 17, 2015

@tylerblvr 2 same sex parents here w/ a fabulous 17 year old straight son. You ever find yourself needing a home, we’re in Rhode Island USA

— @iLoveBostonLife (@iLoveBostonLife) March 19, 2015

@tylerblvr I so admire your strength, courage & sense of self. I hope your father realizes soon how wrong he is. Until then, it’s his loss.

— Mandy (@ajtrublu) March 18, 2015

“It’s just amazing,” Tyler told The Huffington Post. “People need to know there are so many other people who would want to love you and be your friend, so (that’s) what really matters.”