Help Me Protect My Kids

Many of you know parts of my story as I've been open about the domestic violence I experienced in the past and my efforts to build a safe, stable, happy life for my kids and myself since then. While I have largely succeeded in achieving this goal, what I have not shared quite as publicly has been the ongoing conflict in my co-parenting situation that has drastically escalated over the last year. As many know, this is not an uncommon occurrence and can have a devastating impact on children caught in the middle.

Unfortunately, as is also common, the situation has escalated beyond what I can manage without legal intervention and intensive professional support.

Why This Is Different

For years, I've navigated difficult co-parenting dynamics without involving others inappropriately. I've taken the high road, maintained boundaries, and focused solely on creating stability for my kids. I've absorbed financial strain, emotional toll, and countless sleepless nights in my attempts to resolve this situation without escalating it unnecessarily and causing further mental and emotional harm to my kids.

What's happening now is fundamentally different. School counselors have contacted me with urgent concerns. Therapists have documented troubling changes in my children's emotional health. Family members from both sides have voiced serious worry about drastic changes in my children’s behavior and demeanor.

The behaviors and tactics that were once directed at myself and other adults within my children’s support network are now increasingly focused on my children despite every effort to prevent and/or address this. They are continually put in impossible positions and being intentionally exposed to adult conflicts they shouldn't have to carry, causing them to feel torn between their caregivers instead of safe, loved, and supported.

Why Legal Intervention Is Now Necessary

After exhausting every non-legal avenue for resolution for the last 2 years, I'm facing the reality that only court-ordered interventions can protect my children from the harm they're experiencing. Based on input from mental health professionals, school counselors, and legal experts, I need to:

These steps aren't about relitigating the past, they're about creating necessary protections and implementing vital supports that will allow my kids to finally be kids again.

The Immediate Financial Reality

The costs to establish these supports and protections for my children are substantial and immediate:

I've already tapped every other available resource, including the safety net I had managed to build for us, but the legal process is just beginning and I'm now facing financial decisions no parent should have to make: paying for legal protection and therapy or meeting basic needs.

Your Impact (Even Small Donations Matter)

Every dollar contributed to this fund means I am not stuck with such an impossible decision. Here's what living expenses your contributions allow me to cover:

Every single contribution moves us closer to safety and healing. I've set up this fund with specific milestones to show exactly how your support translates into my ability to fight to protect my children.

My Promise to You

I commit to being transparent about how funds are used (while respecting privacy) and will provide updates on our progress. This is now the best possible option to ensure that my children can heal and maintain healthy relationships with all family members who truly support their wellbeing.

All I want is to see my kids get to be kids again. If you can help today, even in a small way, you'll be directly contributing to my ability to make that happen.

Thank you for seeing us, hearing our story, and considering support during this critical time.

Love, Jess

Note on privacy: While I've been open about my own experiences with domestic violence, I remain committed to protecting my children's specific experiences and privacy. The details shared here focus on the support needed rather than exposing their personal struggles, but if you do have questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.