A young girl’s fortunes have changed after she was rejected first by her mother, and then by 20 potential adoptive families.
The story of Luca Trapanese’s journey to adopt baby Alba went viral for several reasons. Perhaps the most important reason for this is that social services don’t often grant custody to a single, gay man.
However, they made an exception in Lucas’ case… we’re so happy they did.
According to the BBC, Italian Luca, 41, published a book recounting his journey to becoming the father of Alba, a girl with D0wn syndrome.
During a radio interview, Trapanese said his case was special because it “destroys stereotypes about fatherhood, religion, and family.”
“She brought me happiness and a sense of fulfillment. I am proud to be her dad,” he said.
In Italy, adoptions for homos-e.x.ual and single parents have traditionally been a complicated affair.
“I was told that I would only have a child with an illness, a severe disability, or with behavioral problems,” he told the BBC. “I was OK with that.”
Luca adopted Alba in 2017 when she was just 13 days old and has already been passed upon by 20 families because of her condition.
“It brought me happiness and a sense of fulfillment. I am proud to be his father,” he said.
Instagram/trapaluca
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 and often helped people who were seriously ill or disabled.
That’s why, even though he doesn’t have a partner, he decided to adopt Alba, who now lives in a happy home with her father.
Instagram/trapaluca
According to the BBC, Alba is a determined little child who can sometimes be stubborn. She loves to play and dance and enjoys the company of others.
“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.”
Instagram/trapaluca
It’s been a few years now since Luca and Alba went viral because of their beautiful relationship. However, fans can still follow their journey and daily life on Luca’s Instagram – he has over 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 enjoy being outdoors and traveling to Italy, painting, meeting friends, and enjoying each other’s company.
We’re sending all our best wishes in the direction of Luca and Alba! Luca is a man with a big heart, and thanks to him this little girl has a bright future ahead of her.
