In this episode of "Redefining Family," I had the pleasure of welcoming Mark O'Looney and Owen Cannon, an inspiring Irish couple living in the United States. As passionate advocates for LGBTQ+ family rights, particularly in the realm of surrogacy, they shared their unique journey as parents to two daughters, Aria and Nala, both born via surrogacy.

Mark and Owen opened up about their backgrounds, discussing the challenges they faced due to the lack of surrogacy legislation in Ireland. Mark recounted his early realization of being gay, growing up in a conservative environment where being different was not easily accepted. He shared his coming-out story, which coincided with Ireland's historic marriage referendum in 2015. Owen echoed similar sentiments, describing his own journey of self-discovery and the moment he realized he was gay while watching the UK series "Queer as Folk."

The couple's love story unfolded as they met during a community theater audition, where an instant connection sparked between them. Their relationship blossomed over time, leading to a heartfelt proposal that was both romantic and deeply personal, showcasing Mark's thoughtful planning.

As they transitioned into parenthood, Mark and Owen discussed their decision to pursue surrogacy, emphasizing the importance of understanding the legal landscape surrounding it. They candidly shared their experiences navigating the complexities of surrogacy, including the challenges posed by Irish law, which does not recognize their parental rights as a same-sex couple. They highlighted the need for advocacy and legal reform to ensure equality for all families, regardless of their structure.

Throughout the episode, Mark and Owen emphasized the significance of community and representation, particularly for their daughters, who are of Nigerian-Irish descent. They spoke about the importance of surrounding their children with diverse role models and ensuring they have a strong sense of identity.

Listeners will find this episode not only informative but also deeply moving, as Mark and Owen's story is a testament to love, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality in family rights. Their journey serves as an inspiration for anyone navigating the complexities of parenthood and advocacy in today's world.