My name is Abby, and I’m a single mother of four. My oldest son, Evan Perot, is 18 years old and recently made the courageous decision to join the National Guard before even graduating high school. Evan is determined to set a new path for his siblings. Watching him take on this challenge fills me with pride and joy that words can hardly express.

Evan is currently 8 1/2 hours away from home, finishing basic training. The distance has been tough on all of us, especially his younger brother Sean, who misses him deeply. Our family has only been able to speak with Evan briefly on Sundays, and the separation has been a real test for us all. Despite the challenges, we are so proud of the strength and determination Evan has shown.

Attending Evan’s graduation in Missouri would mean everything to our family. For Evan, seeing his loved ones after enduring the hardest experience of his life would be an incredible moment of relief and accomplishment. For me, being able to hug my son after all he’s been through is something I long for. I want to be there with his siblings to show him just how much he is loved and supported.

As a single mom, covering the costs of travel, hotel, rental car, and meals for myself and Evan’s siblings is a real challenge. I want to be able to celebrate this milestone with him more than anything in this world. Any support will help us make this trip possible and give Evan the homecoming he deserves.

He has family day Sept.24 and graduates Sept.25 I realize this is short notice but again we are beyond grateful

for anything. Thank you so much