When Alba was born, she was given up for adoption. Entering the system as a newborn with Down Syndrome, she was rejected by twenty families.

But then she found Luca.

Luca had always wanted to be a father, but Italian authorities don’t usually grant custody to single, gay men. He was told that he could only adopt a baby with special needs who had been previously rejected by ‘traditional’ families. But having volunteered and worked with people with disabilities since his teens, he was not deterred.

In July 2017 Luca was contacted by social services about a 30-day-old baby girl in need of adoption. Without hesitation, he rushed to the hospital to meet Alba. On that day, they became a family.

“When I first held her in my arms, I was overcome with joy. I felt she was my daughter straight away.”

“Alba completely revolutionized my life, now everything revolves around her. She brought me happiness and a sense of fulfillment. I am proud to be her dad.”

“I will spend the rest of my life with a child I love, and we’ll do so many amazing things together.”

Today, Alba is surrounded by an extended family of grandparents, uncles, and cousins.

I asked Luca if there was anything he wanted people to know about Alba. His answer was simple and that of a devoted dad. “Alba is cheerful and enthusiastic about life. She is a determined child. She loves music and balloons, and has made me immensely happy.”

That happiness, that love, is what makes a family.

A huge thanks to Luca Trapanese for giving me permission to tell his family’s story, and for the use of their photos. If you would like to learn more or keep updated with Luca and Alba’s story, you can find them on Instagram by clicking here.