My name is Michelle, and I’m a mom to two amazing girls, Sophie and Riley. Sophie is 11 and has Down syndrome—she’s bright, loving, and brings so much joy to everyone she meets. Riley is 10, a spunky tomboy who loves reading, arts and crafts, and animals. For the first 11 years of their lives, we lived primarily in Arizona, surrounded by our family and friends. Wanting to give their father and his family a chance to build a relationship with the girls and to have the relationship my father and I still have to this day, I made the decision to move us to Alabama. I had high hopes that we could all work together for the best interest of the kids, sharing holidays and birthdays and creating a supportive environment for them which was also promised to me prior to the move.

Unfortunately, things haven’t turned out as planned. Since moving, my daughters and I have faced ongoing conflict and negativity, despite have 2 college degrees and decades of experience I have been unable to to get a job (I have applied to over 300 jobs, both work from and in person jobs). Due to little to no help that was promised to me prior to my move here, I have very minimal help with my daughters... so I have been left to sacrifice everything including my availability for work. This has left me only able to door dash both when the girls are in school, and they have to come with me after school and on weekends. My daughters have been put in the middle of adult issues, something they never had to experience before. I was entirely excluded, and not allowed to attend my own daughters birthday party even though she wanted me there, the feelings and opinions of others were placed above me being her mother and the feelings of my daughter on her own birthday. Something I never would have put her father through.

I’ve tried to stay positive and lead by example, but it’s become clear that the best thing for Sophie, Riley, and myself is to return home to Glendale, where we have a strong support network and a loving community.

I’m raising funds to cover the costs of moving back—U-Haul rental, gas, and move in costs back home in Arizona. I used all my savings and even my entire retirement/401k to make the original move to Alabam, and now I’m struggling to get back on my feet. Your support will help us return to a safe, loving environment where my girls and I can thrive. Thank you for helping us get back home.