A baby boy was safely recovered from the “Culla per la vita” (Cradle for Life) at the Red Cross headquarters in Bergamo on the morning of April 19. The alarm was triggered at 9:45 AM, shortly after a heavy storm that had affected the city since the early hours.
The infant, who has been provisionally named Pietro by hospital staff, was transported to the Papa Giovanni hospital. Medical professionals have confirmed that the child is in good health and had already eaten by late morning.
A handwritten note, written on a piece of squared notebook paper, was found with the child. In the message, the mother wrote, “I wish you so much joy and serenity that we are unable to give you. We have loved you from the first instant. I love you to death.”
Rapid Response and Security Systems
The rescue was facilitated by a series of redundant security systems. According to Gianluca Sforza, president of the Bergamo Red Cross, the facility uses multiple alarms and internal cameras to monitor the baby’s condition and the room’s climate in real-time.
Once the alarm sounded, the radio room operator alerted emergency services. An ambulance arrived within one minute, accompanied by an Areu medical car and a police patrol, who took custody of the mother’s letter and notified the prosecutor.
A Gesture of Fragility and Love
Bergamo’s Mayor, Elena Carnevali, described the act as a “last act of love,” suggesting the decision was likely made in a state of great fragility. She emphasized that such decisions deserve respect rather than judgment.
The Papa Giovanni hospital has stated it will maintain maximum discretion to protect the privacy of the mother, and child. The facility has also extended an open offer of medical and human support to the mother should she choose to reach out.
Legal and Historical Context
The “Culla per la vita” is managed by the Donne Medico association. It was moved to the Red Cross headquarters in 2019 after previously being located at the Matris Domini convent.
This is only the second time since 2019 that a newborn has been left at this location. The only previous instance occurred on May 5, 2023, when a baby girl, named Noemi, was left in the cradle on the morning of her birth.
What Happens Next
The infant is currently under the professional care of the ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII. A formal registration at the registry office is expected to capture place in approximately ten days.
However, this administrative process may be altered if the parents decide to come forward before that deadline. The hospital continues to provide all necessary care whereas ensuring the anonymity of those involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current health status of the baby?
The baby boy is in good condition, has been visited by emergency room doctors, and had already eaten by the late morning of his discovery.
Is the mother facing criminal charges for leaving the baby?
No. Because the “Culla per la vita” is designed to guarantee immediate rescue and well-being, depositing a child there is not considered the crime of child abandonment.
How does the alarm system work at the Red Cross?
The system uses redundant alarms, including a bell, computer notifications, and a terminal with an internal camera. It also monitors room temperature and climate, triggering alerts if the temperature fluctuates by even one degree.
How can communities better support parents facing extreme fragility to ensure the safety of newborns?
