A man from Sunset Park says adopting a foster child was one of the greatest joys in his life.

In light of May being National Foster Care Month, News 12’s Paula Vasan met with Paul Brown to discuss his views on adoption.

Brown tells News 12 that he has been an adoptive parent to Rey Santiago for nearly 20 years.

He says that his decision to adopt started with the realization that his age may prevent him from conceiving a child of his own.

Though his search began with toddlers, Brown says he reconsidered his own notions when he learned that foster teens have the most difficult time finding a permanent home.

Brown says he adopted Santiago when he was 13 years old, recalling Santiago’s response to a question about what he likes: “I like a scary story, where somebody gets saved.”

Brown and Santiago tell News 12 that their relationship is stronger than ever.

Brown is now the grandfather to Santiago’s 10-year-old son.