Abandoned at birth, little Alba had already been refused by more than 20 families awaiting adoption when along came Luca, single, gay and now the proud father of this little girl with down syndrome.
This 41-year-old from Naples in Italy had always wanted to be a father but in Italy, adoption is only allowed for married heterosexual couples between 18 and 45 years of age.
Single people can adopt under certain conditions.
“I always wanted to be a father. And in 2017, I was able to submit an application to adopt,” said Luca Trapanese to the BBC.
“They told me that they would only give me sick children, with severe disabilities, or with behavioural problems.
“A child who would have been rejected by all the other traditional families. And I totally agreed with that.”
Luca had volunteered and worked with critically ill people and the disabled since he was 14 so he felt he had the knowledge and the experience to do it.
In July of 2017, the Italian courts called Luca and changed his and Alba’s life.
“When I held Alba in my arms for the first time I was filled with joy,” recalled Luca.
“I felt right away that it was my daughter and I knew I was ready to be her daddy.”
“I am proud to be her father. Alba was never a second option because she had a disability. I wanted her to be my daughter, “said Luca.
Fast forward two years and Alba has just had her second birthday and going strong according to Luca.
“She has a strong personality. She can be a bit stubborn at times.
“She loves to play, dance and laugh all day. I often bring her to work with me, she loves it.”
Luca’s entourage, and especially her two mums, treat Alba as if she were the Queen of England, according to her dad.
“I’m going to spend the rest of my life with a girl I love, ” concluded Luca, “and we’re going to do a lot of wonderful things together.”
Last Updated on Sep 26, 2019
The news team for Gay Nation love tips from our readers. Got tips or a news story that you would like published? Go here to tell us something.
Visit the Gay Nation store Now
