I DIDN’T PLAN TO BE A DAD THAT DAY—BUT SHE CHOSE ME
I Never Planned to Be a Dad That Day—But She Chose Me
While on patrol one afternoon in a park in Modesto, I noticed a young woman sitting alone on a bench, holding a newborn baby close to her chest. Her name was Kiara. She looked exhausted, vulnerable, and overwhelmed. I learned that she had recently aged out of the foster care system and was now homeless, struggling to care for her infant daughter, Nia, in difficult circumstances.
Feeling compelled to help, I took them to a nearby shelter where they could have a safe place for the night. I thought that would be the end of my involvement. But I couldn’t stop thinking about them. Over the next several weeks, I kept visiting Kiara and Nia. During those visits, Kiara began opening up about her fears and uncertainties around parenting.
She asked me questions—simple, honest questions about how to care for a baby, how to keep her safe, and how to be a mother when she didn’t feel ready. One day, she said something that stayed with me: “I’m not ready to be a mom. But you… you care.” That moment changed everything. The decision to become a father to Nia wasn’t instantaneous or easy. Adoption processes are complex, especially when child protective services (CPS) are involved.
For two months, I was not allowed to see Nia while CPS evaluated the situation. During this time, Kiara worked hard to improve her circumstances, but it became clear that she wanted what was best for Nia—even if that meant giving up her parental rights. Eventually, Kiara tearfully called me and said, “You already are what she needs.” When she signed over her rights, I was legally cleared to become Nia’s adoptive father.
My fellow officers rallied around me, helping gather baby supplies and offering support as I prepared to take on fatherhood. I dove in headfirst—nervous, tired, and unsure of myself, but completely committed to giving Nia the love and stability she deserved.
A judge officially finalized the adoption a few months later, and I gave her the full name Nia Grace Duvall. Kiara remains a part of our lives, visiting Nia on her birthdays and staying connected in a way that’s healthy and positive for everyone involved. Now, Nia is four years old—full of laughter, curiosity, and love.
Looking back, I never imagined I would become a dad that day in the park. But choosing to step in changed my life—and hers—forever. Sometimes love finds you in the most unexpected places and teaches you the true meaning of family.
