The origin of Danny Stewart and Pete Mercurios family life is as unusual as it gets.
Stewart and Mercurio spoke with AARP about their family journey, theadoptionof Kevin, and the joys of parenting.
Danny Stewart:It happened 21 years ago, but I remember every detail.
We werent even allowed to get married back then.
Danny:I thought I saw a doll inside the bundle.
But then its tiny legs moved.
This was before everybody hadcellphones.I found a pay phone and called 911.
Then I called Pete.
Pete:I ran over to meet him just as the police were taking the baby away.
Then a couple months later, I got a notice asking me to give testimony.
At the hearing the judge asked me, Would you be interested in adopting this baby?
I was shocked, but I said yes.
Pete:Danny cant decide between tater tots and french fries, but he says yes to this?
Danny:I knew it would work out.
When I held Kevin for the first time, it felt like a miracle.
I knew where we were going with this.
That same judge agreed to do our ceremony.
Danny:Kevin is taller than both of us.
We actually look up to him.He runs marathons.Hes taught himself how to play guitar, how to play piano.
Hes respectful, hes kind.
I really admire him.
His way of going about life is just amazing.
Pete:Weve never thought of Kevin as ours.
Your kids are never your possessions.
You just do your best to prepare them for adulthood, but all of it is transient.
Theyre passing through, and it goes by really fast.
Danny:Hes away at college now.
We miss him, but you have to let go.
Hes doing what hes supposed to be doing figuring out how to live independently.
Maybe what Im proudest of: When an opportunity presents itself, Kevin says yes.
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