Abandoned Baby Was Initially Mistaken for a Doll. Then the Man Who Found Him Was Asked to Adopt: ‘One Surprise After Another’

New York City Subway Baby Thrives as a 25-Year-Old, According to His Dads

In a heartwarming exclusive story, it has been revealed that a baby abandoned in the New York City subway over two decades ago is now a thriving 25-year-old, as shared by his dads. This incredible journey of hope and love began when social worker Danny Stewart found the abandoned infant at a subway station in 2000. Stewart, along with his then-boyfriend Pete Mercurio, took on the role of foster parents and later adopted the child, turning their lives upside down in the most unexpected way.

The remarkable tale of the abandoned baby has been made into a poignant six-minute stop-motion animated short film titled 18 Months. The film, produced by the nonprofit Second Nurture and created by Klick Health with animation by Zombie Studio, aims to shed light on adoption stories and break down any associated stigmas. Through their inspiring story, Stewart, Mercurio, and their son have become advocates for the power of love and family in all its diverse forms.

Back in the summer of 2000, neither Stewart nor Mercurio had imagined taking on the responsibility of raising a child. The unexpected discovery of the abandoned baby at the subway station marked the beginning of a whirlwind journey that changed their lives forever. Despite facing financial challenges and no prior plans of parenthood, the couple embraced the opportunity to provide a loving home for the infant, whom they later named Kevin Stewart-Mercurio.

What started as a heroic act of finding and reporting the baby quickly transformed into a legal process involving foster care and adoption. Stewart’s willingness to testify in court to secure the baby’s future led to a life-altering question from a judge – would they be interested in adopting the child? This pivotal moment paved the way for the couple to navigate the complexities of becoming first-time parents and integrating Kevin into their lives.

As a same-sex couple raising a child of a different race, Stewart and Mercurio faced various challenges and uncertainties. However, they found overwhelming support from their community in New York City, which helped them navigate the adoption process smoothly. Their openness about Kevin’s origin story, coupled with their unwavering love and dedication, laid a strong foundation for Kevin’s growth and acceptance of his unique family background.

Through the years, Kevin blossomed into a talented and accomplished young man, excelling both academically and socially. Despite facing moments of questioning his identity and background, Kevin found his strength in the love and support of his dads and community. His journey from being an abandoned baby to a successful software developer is a testament to the power of resilience and familial bonds.

Reflecting on their family’s evolution, Stewart and Mercurio express gratitude for the serendipitous events that led them to Kevin. Their story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for families of all kinds, highlighting the transformative impact of love, acceptance, and unwavering support. As Kevin continues to thrive and pursue his dreams, his dads remain by his side, proud of the remarkable young man he has become.

The extraordinary journey of the New York City subway baby turned thriving young adult is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love to overcome challenges and forge lasting bonds. Kevin’s story serves as a reminder that family comes in many forms, but it is the love and commitment that define its true essence.