Five and a half years ago I walked out of an abusive marriage I never expected to be abusive. I felt betrayed and isolated, utterly alone. I had someone offer me a couch to crash on while I got my feet under me - but it was two states away. I had two lawyers and a police officer warn me that if I left the state with my two young boys (6 and 4 at the time) I would be charged with kidnapping and they would be brought back to their father. I made an impossible decision, and after being a stay at home mom for FIFTEEN years, I started therapy and did my best to get a job and save up so I could have my boys visit me again.

It took me five years.

This past summer was the first time I had enough money to bring my boys here to visit me. I watched my two youngest reunite with my two eldest children and pick up right where they left off.... which was incredible. But we started to hear stories about their home life that were concerning.

Fast forward six months and now I can summarize that DCFS has had my ex in court after multiple investigations. I'm still a single mom, and I've been asked to be prepared to drop everything at a moment's notice and go pick up my two young boys and bring them home. This funding campaign is to specifically give the opportunity for me to go get my boys if needed.

Go Get My Boys...

May be four words but it involves time off of work, renting a vehicle, gas and driving for four days round trip, hotel stays, meals, and then the process of clothing and settling them into housing when we return. My ex was fired from his job and the boys have lost health coverage so I will be trying to increase my income to prepare for this, but we all know how the job market is right now.

They have some medical needs, and I should add that I am also doing everything I can but I'm limited in my ability to work. I can't pick up a second job or something labor related, or even a job that requires long standing - I have three autoimmune disorders, a connective tissue disorder, thyroid disease, a spinal deformity, arthritis.... and it sounds like a lot (I'm sure it is) but I've been juggling it and maintaining a specific diet to help myself.

I hate asking for help. I often don't when I should. But I'm determined to be my best, and in turn be the best Mom for all of my kids. They need me. I have no doubt.

Please help me be able to give my boys a home where they are loved, and taught....where they can focus on who they are and who they can become rather than focusing on surviving.

Please help me keep my boys out of foster care. I can't live with knowing that they could be hurt simply because I didn't have enough money.

Please.