The day you become a parent is unforgettable. It’s the moment you welcome a unique little person into the world, someone who will depend on you for everything. As a parent, it becomes your job to create the best life possible for them, helping them chase their dreams.
Adriana Iliescu became a mother for the first time in 2005, and her story made headlines all around the globe. Why? Because Adriana was an incredible 66 years old when her daughter, Eliza, was born!
When Adriana held Eliza for the first time, she felt pure happiness. It was as if all her dreams had finally come true. Now, 17 years later, new pictures of Eliza are creating a buzz, reminding everyone of the remarkable journey they’ve been on together.
There are days in our lives that change everything. Every parent can agree that the instant their child arrives is magical and hard to put into words. Seeing that precious little face looking up at you fills your heart with an indescribable joy.
Some babies are destined for history books, and that’s exactly what happened with little Eliza Iliescu. Born in Romania, she became famous because of her extraordinary mother. Adriana wasn’t just any mom; she was the oldest mother in the world when she gave birth, earning her a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records!
In an interview in 2010, Adriana opened up about her experience of becoming a mother later in life. People were critical and thought she was being selfish because of her age. But Adriana had a spirit that defied all odds.
“The mirror is unkind to women,” she stated, “but if we are talking about my energy, then I feel like a young woman. I feel like I’m 27.” Adriana’s confidence shined through as she explained that she was healthier than many women half her age.
Even though people called her “granny” jokingly, she never let it bother her. “I didn’t have Eliza to make me look younger. I never feel my years!” sounded like such a strong declaration from a fiercely proud mother.
In that same interview, the then 71-year-old Adriana expressed her hope to have more children. “Medically, it’s possible,” she said, eyes sparkling with excitement. “I understand there are trials going on with a 70-year-old woman in England, so it could be done.”
Despite her advanced age, she felt full of life. “I am fine and healthy. I think it’s possible to have another child, but I’m not in a rush,” she added with a kind smile.
Over the years, Adriana and Eliza formed a powerful bond, just like most mothers and daughters. Eliza grew into an energetic, funny, and joyful girl, constantly making her mother proud. Despite the critics, Adriana firmly believed she was a good parent.
“I don’t smoke and I don’t drink. If I live as long as my parents did, Eliza will be 20 by the time I pass away. I think I still have a lot to give her,” she explained confidently.
Adriana’s journey into motherhood wasn’t something she planned. When she was young and newly married, she faced heartbreaking circumstances and was forced to have an abortion for medical reasons. After her husband abandoned her when she was just 24, she poured herself into her career as a university teacher in Romania.
“I couldn’t even think about a child, as I was working,” she recalled. But in her heart, she always wanted to be a mother. “At the age of 37, after I had completed my doctorate, I was ready to have a child. But there was no IVF back then,” she sighed.
Finally, in 2000, at the age of 57, Adriana was thrilled when in-vitro fertilization became available in Romania. She jumped at the chance and sought treatment. Sadly, her first pregnancy ended in heartbreak when she lost the baby.
Many people turned their backs on her, thinking her desire to become a mother was foolish, but Adriana’s hope never wavered.
“Even when others would turn away, I held on to my dream,” she said fiercely. She sought the help of Dr. Bogdan Marinescu in Bucharest. Through him, she found the strength to try again, leading to the wonderful birth of her daughter Eliza.
Miraculously, Adriana became pregnant with triplets, but although two of them did not survive, Eliza was born. She arrived early, spending time in the NICU before blooming into a strong little girl.
As a deeply religious person, Adriana wanted to baptize her daughter, but even then, she faced judgment. Many in the religious community disapproved of her becoming a mother at such an old age.
During Eliza’s baptism, the nuns looked at her with disapproval, and one even called her child “the product of dark force.” It was hurtful, but Adriana held strong to her belief that Eliza was a precious gift from God.
Fast forward to 2022, and it has been 17 years since Adriana began her journey of motherhood. They now share countless moments filled with love and laughter, despite the fact that many people still mistakenly think Adriana is Eliza’s grandmother.
The strong, experienced mother continues to feel youthful and vibrant, filled with love that’s vital for raising her daughter. Now at 83, Adriana is also an accomplished author, having written more than 25 children’s books, many inspired by her own experiences.
She still teaches part-time in Bucharest, showing that age is just a number and passion continues to fuel her.
To ensure Eliza’s future is secure, Adriana made a special arrangement with her doctor. He agreed to be Eliza’s godfather and legal guardian if anything ever happened to her.
Although Adriana likes to keep her family life private, it’s known that 17-year-old Eliza has dreams of attending college and making her own mark on the world. According to reports, she is an award-winning student, following beautifully in her mother’s academic footsteps.
Adriana’s dedication to her daughter is unwavering. “I will always be there for her,” she often insists. Eliza looks incredibly happy, content, and well-rounded—a shining example of how love can transcend any limitations. Adriana reminds us all of the power of determination and love, proving that parenthood knows no age limits.
What do you think of this incredible story? Share your thoughts in the comments below! It’s inspiring to see how Adriana and Eliza have thrived together, embodying the idea that love and commitment lead to happiness, regardless of the odds.
