Robert Cooper and Brett Schriewer, a couple from Kansas City, Missouri, have been together for over 13 years. Robert, a kitchen and bath designer, and Brett, a middle school principal, never expected that their path to fatherhood would unfold the way it did. But in September last year, when a twist of fate presented them with the opportunity to adopt their daughter, D’Laya Monaé, they knew they couldn’t let her slip through the cracks of the foster care system.
“We’ve been in D’Laya’s life since she was born,” Robert explains. “Her biological aunt was originally adopting her, but when things fell through, the baby was going to be placed in foster care. Her aunt gave the adoption agency our information on a Monday, and by that Wednesday, a social worker was at our house for an interview and home inspection. By Friday, I was picking D’Laya up from the airport.”
The speed of the process was overwhelming, but for Robert and Brett, it was the right decision. “We just couldn’t let D’Laya get lost in the foster care system,” Robert says with conviction.
D’Laya was 2 and a half when she came to live with her dads.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Parenthood came with its share of challenges. “When she first came home, D’Laya would throw major tantrums at bedtime,” Robert recalls. “After about a month, we started questioning whether we were ready or if we could handle it.” Adjusting to her new environment was difficult for D’Laya, as it was her first time having her own room.
But through patience and love, the family found their rhythm. “Over time, the tantrums subsided as she became more comfortable being here with us,” Robert shares. “It was all about giving her the love and structure she needed.”
Celebrating the Joys of Fatherhood
Despite the initial hurdles, the joys of fatherhood far outweigh the challenges for Robert and Brett. “The best part is when she says, ‘Daddy, I love you,’ just because,” Robert says. “It’s those moments that make everything worthwhile.”
The family enjoys spending quality time together at the park, attending baseball and football games, visiting the zoo, and having movie nights. “D’Laya has brought so much happiness into our lives,” Brett adds.
Teaching D’Laya how to navigate the world as a young girl has been a unique and rewarding challenge for Robert and Brett. “The hardest part about being a dad is teaching her how to be a lady,” Robert admits with a smile.
A Supportive Community
Robert and Brett are grateful for the support they’ve received from friends, family, and their adoption agency, Cornerstones of Care. “Thankfully, we haven’t faced any discrimination,” Robert notes. “Everybody has been so supportive.”
This positive experience has encouraged the couple to consider expanding their family. “We’ve already started discussions about adopting a big brother for D’Laya,” Robert reveals.
Advice for Prospective Parents
For other same-sex couples considering adoption, Robert offers this advice: “It’s a big change, so be prepared for that. It might take a while for the child to adjust to their new home, but with patience, love, and structure, you can help them thrive.”
Reflecting on their journey, Robert and Brett feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to be D’Laya’s parents. “It’s been an amazing experience,” Robert says. “She’s changed our lives in ways we never could have imagined.”
Robert and Brett’s story is a testament to the power of love and resilience. By stepping up in a moment of need, they created a family filled with joy, laughter, and unconditional love—and they’re just getting started.
