In 2005, Adriana Iliescu, a retired Romanian professor, made headlines around the world as she became a mother for the first time at the age of 66. Her decision and accomplishment were met with fascination and controversy, turning her daughter Eliza into a historic figure. Now, 17 years later, Adriana and Eliza continue to capture the world’s attention, proving that love and resilience transcend age.
An Extraordinary Beginning
For Adriana, motherhood came later in life than most. Growing up in Romania, she had once been a young bride eager to start a family. But after a difficult marriage and medical complications led to an abortion, her dreams of having a child seemed distant. As she poured herself into her career, Adriana became a respected university lecturer, earning a doctorate and publishing children’s literature. Yet the desire to have a child never left her.
By 2000, when in-vitro fertilization (IVF) became available in Romania, Adriana, then in her late fifties, pursued her dream once again. Her first attempt was unsuccessful, but she remained determined, despite facing harsh criticism and judgment. Many questioned her choice to pursue motherhood at such an age, calling it “unnatural” and “selfish.” However, Adriana’s resolve remained unshaken. She found support in Dr. Bogdan Marinescu, a physician in Bucharest, who agreed to help her.
In 2005, Adriana became pregnant with triplets. Tragically, two of the babies did not survive, but Eliza, the third child, was born prematurely. Adriana’s joy was tempered by weeks of worry as Eliza fought for her life in the neonatal intensive care unit. Yet Eliza grew stronger each day, a testimony to her mother’s unwavering faith and love. Adriana saw Eliza’s survival as a gift from God, an answer to her lifelong prayers.
Facing Criticism and Finding Strength
Becoming a mother at 66 was not without challenges. Adriana faced criticism not only from her community but also from religious figures. Many saw her choice as a violation of natural order, with some even suggesting dark motives. Adriana remembers one moment vividly, when a nun at Eliza’s baptism cast her a cold glance, muttering that Eliza was “the product of dark forces.”
Despite such remarks, Adriana stood firm in her belief that Eliza was a blessing, sent to fulfill her deep-seated dream of becoming a mother. In a 2010 interview, Adriana described how she felt younger than ever, despite her years. “People think they are being funny when they call me granny,” she shared, “but I didn’t have Eliza to make me look younger. I never feel my years.” She expressed gratitude for her health and hoped to continue raising Eliza for many years.
Adriana’s energy remains astonishing even today, as she approaches her 84th year. Though she resembles a grandmother more than a mother, her devotion to Eliza is unmistakable. She has given up smoking, drinking, and maintains a healthy lifestyle, hoping to be there for Eliza for as long as possible. “If I live as long as my parents did,” Adriana stated, “Eliza will be 20 by the time I pass away.”
Building a Life Together
Over the years, Adriana and Eliza have built an unbreakable bond. Eliza, now 17, is a lively, intelligent, and academically gifted young woman. Like her mother, she has a passion for learning and aspires to attend college. Adriana takes pride in her daughter’s achievements, describing her as energetic and bright. According to reports, Eliza has already earned accolades as a student, following in her mother’s academic footsteps.
Adriana, a prolific writer, has authored over 25 children’s books, drawing from her experiences and imagination to create stories that inspire young readers. She continues to teach part-time at a local university, a role she cherishes as it keeps her mind sharp and connected to a world beyond motherhood.
To ensure Eliza’s future, Adriana has also arranged for her doctor and confidant, Dr. Marinescu, to serve as Eliza’s guardian if she should pass. This thoughtful plan provides Adriana with peace of mind, knowing that her daughter will have a trusted figure in her life even if she is no longer there.
A Quiet, Private Life
Today, Adriana prefers to live a quiet life away from the public eye, focusing on her family and career. She shares glimpses of their life occasionally, allowing the world to see a resilient woman who defied the odds to achieve her dreams. Despite the age difference, Adriana and Eliza’s relationship is one of mutual love and respect, built on a foundation of shared dreams and unwavering support.
Many of Adriana’s critics have softened their views over the years, recognizing the strength and determination it took to pursue motherhood under such difficult circumstances. Adriana’s life story remains a testament to the belief that motherhood is not defined by age but by dedication and love. She challenges society’s preconceived notions about aging and parenting, showing that with perseverance and hope, one can defy the limitations imposed by society.
For Adriana and Eliza, each day together is a gift, a chance to share love, learning, and laughter. In a world that often measures success by conventional timelines, their story is a reminder that there is no single path to happiness or family. Adriana’s choice may have been unconventional, but it has given her life profound purpose and joy.
As Eliza prepares for college, the next chapter of their lives begins. Adriana’s story is not just about motherhood later in life; it is about resilience, hope, and the boundless love between a mother and her child. They may be an unlikely duo, but their journey proves that age is no barrier to love and that family is where the heart finds peace.
