A baby girl born with Down syndrome was rejected by her biological mother and then passed over by 20 adoptive families. Her life changed when she was finally welcomed by someone willing to see beyond her condition.
That person was Luca Trapanese, a single man from Italy who had long wanted to become a father. In a country where adoption by single and gay parents is rare, his request was considered unusual. He was told he would likely only be approved for a child with serious medical or social challenges. He accepted that without hesitation.
Alba was just 13 days old when Luca adopted her in 2017. Despite being repeatedly rejected, she immediately became the center of his life. Luca has said that holding her for the first time erased all his fears and made him certain he was ready to be her father.
Luca’s desire to help vulnerable people began in his teens after losing a close friend to cancer. He later worked with people with disabilities and volunteered through faith-based charities. Those experiences shaped his decision to adopt and care for a child many others had turned away.
Today, Alba is described as a lively and determined child who loves music, play, and being around people. She and her father share a warm, joyful life together, showing how love, patience, and commitment can give a child a future filled with security and hope.