When Life Changes in a Second: How Deni and Stuart Adopted a Baby Found at a New York Train Station
Imagine walking through the city and suddenly spotting a baby, alone, abandoned, with the umbilical cord still attached! That’s exactly what happened to New Yorker Deni Stuart 25 years ago. Together with his partner Peter Mercurio, he found a newborn at a New York subway station and decided to adopt him. This story isn’t just touching – it inspired a book and a film that have won many hearts.
How It All Began
It was summer 1998. Deni, a 34-year-old social worker, was late for an express train at the 14th Street station in the Morningside Heights neighborhood. As he hurried, he saw something that looked like a doll wrapped in a black hoodie. But when the doll’s leg moved, he realized it was a living newborn! The baby was alone, with the umbilical cord still attached. Deni immediately called the police and comforted the baby until they arrived.
An Unexpected Turn
Although Deni worked as a social worker, he hadn’t planned to adopt the baby. However, in December of that year, at the court hearing, the judge suddenly asked him if he wanted to adopt the child. Without hesitation, Deni said “yes.” His partner Peter was initially hesitant – worried about how their lives would change. But after just one night with the baby, he felt an instant connection.
Fast Process and a New Life
Thanks to a pilot program that allowed faster adoption of healthy abandoned babies, the process moved quickly. By Christmas that year, the baby was already home with them. They named him Kevin, after Peter’s parents who had lost a child in 1970. Kevin grew up to be an exceptionally easy child, graduated from the prestigious Chelsea High School, and earned a degree in computer science and mathematics from Swarthmore College.
The Family Keeps Growing
In 2009, Deni and Peter got married, with the same judge who once asked Deni if he wanted to adopt the baby officiating the ceremony. Today, Kevin lives in Pittsburgh, works as a web programmer, and is captain of his ultimate frisbee team.
Why This Story Touches Hearts
Peter Mercurio says anyone in New York can relate to the moment when a tiny event can change a life forever. Their story proves that love and courage can create a real family, even in the most unexpected circumstances.
Conclusion
This story isn’t just about adopting a baby – it’s about human kindness, bravery, and the power of family. In a world often filled with bad news, stories like this remind us that hope and love still exist.
So, what do you think? Would you have the courage to adopt a child you found on the street? Or maybe you have a similar story? Share it with us, because stories like these deserve to be heard and spread!
