Hey everyone,

I’m trying to raise funds to help my father with something that means everything to him: gaining legal rights to his 12-year-old son.

When my brother’s mother passed away three years ago, my dad stepped up without hesitation. He’s been raising my little brother on his own ever since, doing everything he can to give him love, stability, and a sense of normalcy after such a heartbreaking loss. But there’s one major obstacle standing in the way of their security.

My dad was never added to his son’s birth certificate. Even though a DNA test confirms that he’s the father, the state of Georgia doesn’t legally recognize him as one. Because of that, he has no legal authority to make medical or school decisions for his son. He can’t access his son’s Social Security number, sign school papers, or even take care of basic things that any parent should be able to do.

To fix this, he has to go through a court process called legitimation, which would officially recognize him as his son’s father and legal guardian. I’ve tried to help as much as I can, even filing the petition myself, but we’ve reached a point where an attorney is necessary to move forward. The process is complicated and expensive, and that’s why I started this fundraiser.

My dad is 61 years old and has COPD. He’s worked hard labor his entire life, often putting his own health aside to provide for his son. Now, he’s struggling because he doesn’t have access to the medication and care he needs. Being legitimized wouldn’t just allow him to make decisions for his son, it would also allow him to apply for Medicaid. Since he’s under 65, he doesn’t qualify for certain types of help right now. This step would give him access to Georgia Medicaid so he can stay healthy and continue being there for his son.

He’s doing everything he can, but without this legal step, they’re stuck. This isn’t just about paperwork or court filings. It’s about a father who loves his son more than anything and wants to keep doing right by him. It’s about giving them the chance to live with stability, health, and peace of mind after everything they’ve been through.

We’re hoping to raise $2,500 to cover attorney fees and court costs. Once this process is complete, my dad will finally be recognized as his son’s legal father and have the ability to make decisions and access the care they both desperately need.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read their story and for any support, whether through a donation or by sharing. It means more than words can express.

Thank you for reading and caring. ♥️♥️