A young girl’s fortunes have changed after she was rejected first by her mother and then by 20 potential adoptive families. Luca Trapanese’s journey to adopting baby Alba has gone viral for several reasons, paramount of which may be the fact that social services don’t often grant custody to a single, homosexual man.
However, they made an exception in Luca’s case … and we’re so very happy they did.
The BBC reported that 41-year-old Italian Luca published a book wherein he recounts his journey to becoming the father of Alba, a girl with Down syndrome. Trapanese explained during a radio interview that his case is special because it “destroys stereotypes about fatherhood, religion and family.”
In Italy, adoptions for homosexual and single parents have traditionally been a complicated affair.
“I was told that I’d only be given a child with an illness, a severe disability or with behavioral problems,” he told the BBC. “I was absolutely OK with that.”Luca adopted Alba back in 2017 when she was just 13 days old and had already been passed upon by 20 families due to her condition. “She brought me happiness and a sense of fulfilment. I am proud to be her dad,” he said.
Luca himself had worked in a host of care centers for people with special needs and always wanted to become a father. His passion for helping others started when he was 14, after losing his best friend to cancer.
He volunteered for organizations linked to the Catholic church, often helping people critically ill or disabled.
That was why, despite not having a partner, he decided to press forward with the adoption of Alba, who now enjoys a happy home with her father. According to the BBC, Alba is a determined young child who can be stubborn on occasion. She loves to play and dance, and enjoys the company of other people.
“It was the first time I’d held a newborn baby. Before that moment, I had always been scared. But, when I first held Alba, I knew I was ready to be her dad,” he said. “I was overcome with joy. I felt she was my daughter straight away.” It has now been a few years since Luca and Alba went viral for their beautiful relationship. However, fans can still follow their journey and everyday life on Luca’s Instagram – he has more than 320 000 followers. The couple loves to hang out, and they fill their days with a lot of fun.
Of course, the pandemic has affected their lives, but it’s so inspiring to see their loving relationship. They love to be outside and go on trips around Italy, paint, meet friends, and enjoy each other’s company.