As I sit here trying to find the right words, my heart feels shattered. I am deeply saddened and completely heartbroken. She is not just my friend; she is my sister in every way that matters. She is a friend to all our coworkers that care for her our bosses friends everyone that’s in her life has been affected Her eight beautiful children are like my own family. I have watched them laugh, struggle, and love. They mean everything to me.

This mother has hit rock bottom before and, like so many of us, found the strength to stand back up for her children. She has worked tirelessly, sacrificing daily to provide for them. She is not lazy. She is not careless. She is a hardworking, devoted mother who has always put her children first.

And now, everything has been turned upside down.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has detained her over a work permit—a permit that allowed her to legally work in the United States. She now sits in detention while her children wait at home, confused, hurting, and missing their mother. Her court hearing isn’t until March 18, and we are living in fear of the unknown.

Eight children are left behind in the care of their grandmother, their older brother, and myself, doing everything we can emotionally and financially to keep them stable, safe, and together. My greatest fear is that these children could be separated. No child should have to endure that pain. No family should have to live this nightmare.

I have retained an immigration attorney and arranged a payment plan because we refuse to give up on her. But the financial burden is overwhelming. At this time, anything helps: clothing, groceries, school needs, legal fees, and daily necessities. Every single dollar goes toward keeping these children cared for and fighting to reunite them with their mother.

This family means more to me than words can express. They are good people caught in a broken system that so many families across this country are suffering under. The emotional toll on these children is heartbreaking.

If you can find it in your heart to donate, no matter how small, please do. Your kindness could help keep eight children together and give a mother a fighting chance to come home to them.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your compassion, your prayers, and your support during this unimaginable time.