Help Bring Zayla Home

I am reaching out to share my story and ask for your support in a challenging time for my family. My name is Catie, and I am the proud mother of a wonderful and brilliant 7-year-old girl named Zayla. Recently, my life was turned upside down when a court decision forced my daughter to move from our home in Hawaii to Tennessee, away from the only life she has ever known.

On January 10, 2024, during custody proceedings, the father of my daughter and his family made shocking and false claims about me, including the assertion that they had raised Zayla and that she lived with them. They alleged that I had not been involved in her life, creating a distorted view of my character. These accusations are entirely unfounded. I have been a devoted single mother since Zayla’s birth, nurturing her in a safe and loving environment. I take pride in how I have raised her, and I believe she has grown into a wonderful person as a result.

Despite my best efforts to co-parent, the father often prioritized other commitments over spending time with Zayla. Now, after he was awarded custody, my daughter is struggling to adjust to life without me. It breaks my heart to hear her cry for her mom, longing for the comfort of home.

I have fought tirelessly against these unjust decisions, filing numerous motions to present evidence of the truth. After much effort, I finally received a glimmer of hope—a trial date has been set for December 2024 to address the fraudulent claims made in the custody trial. However, I need your help to secure the legal representation necessary to fight for Zayla's return.

I am seeking to raise $12,000 to cover the retainer and trial costs for a competent attorney who can help me navigate this complex legal battle. Any donation size is appreciated, and I encourage you to contribute whatever you can—whether it’s a one-time gift or multiple small donations. Every dollar will bring me one step closer to reuniting with my daughter and ensuring her well-being. I’m also open to ideas for other ways to support, such as sharing my story with your network, hosting a fundraiser, or connecting me with local resources. Every bit of support makes a difference, and I am truly grateful for any help you can provide.

This journey has been incredibly traumatic, not just for me, but for Zayla as well. I never imagined that my daughter’s name would be associated with court documents, a painful reminder of my own childhood experiences in a custody battle also gone wrong. I want to protect her from the turmoil I endured, and I believe deeply that she belongs with me, her loving mother.

Given my history and the complexities of this situation, I currently struggle with CPTSD (CPTSD stands for Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It typically occurs in individuals who have experienced prolonged or repeated trauma, such as long-term abuse or ongoing traumatic situations. Symptoms can include difficulty regulating emotions, and persistent feelings of fear or anxiety.) from past court proceedings and often freeze up in court. I do not believe I can effectively represent myself in this scenario, which is why securing a competent attorney is crucial for my daughter and me.

I am pleading for your support in this fight to bring Zayla home. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference. Together, we can stand up against injustice and give Zayla the chance to grow up in the loving home she deserves.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please consider donating or sharing this campaign with others who may be willing to help.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Catie

You can contact me at [email redacted] if you can help in other ways other than monetarily.