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 adopting baby Alba has gone viral for several reasons — the biggest being that social services in Italy rarely grant custody to a single, homosexual man.
Yet in Luca’s case, they made an exception… and we’re so glad they did.
According to the BBC, 41‑year‑old Italian Luca has published a book recounting his path to becoming the father of Alba, a little girl with Down syndrome.
In a radio interview, Trapanese explained that his case is unique because it “destroys stereotypes about fatherhood, religion and family.” In Italy, adoption for single or homosexual parents has traditionally been extremely difficult.
“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 in 2017 when she was just 13 days old — after being turned down by 20 families because of her condition.
“She brought me happiness and a sense of fulfilment. I am proud to be her dad,” he said. Luca had spent years working in care centers for people with special needs and had always dreamed of becoming a father. His passion for helping others began at age 14, after losing his best friend to cancer.
He volunteered with Catholic organizations, often supporting people who were critically ill or disabled.
That’s why, despite not having a partner, he pushed forward with adopting Alba — who now enjoys a joyful, loving home with her dad. According to the BBC, Alba is a determined little girl who can be stubborn at times. She loves to play, dance, and be around 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’s been several years since Luca and Alba first went viral for their beautiful bond, but fans can still follow their journey on Luca’s Instagram, where he has more than 320,000 followers.
The pair love spending time together and fill their days with fun. Like everyone, the pandemic affected their lives, but their relationship remains inspiring. They enjoy being outdoors, taking trips around Italy, painting, meeting friends, and simply enjoying each other’s company.
We’re sending our warmest wishes to Luca and Alba. Luca is clearly a man with a big heart — and thanks to him, this little girl has a bright future ahead.
Please share this story if you were touched by what Luca has done.
