
Mila and Evelyn Need Their Mom
Donation protected
My name is Ashleigh Hawthorne, and I am the mother of two young daughters, Mila and Evelyn. I am the widow of my youngest daughter Evelyn’s father, who died when I was seven weeks pregnant in a multiple fatality drunk driving car accident in June 2021. Her father was at fault. After giving birth, I developed severe postpartum depression, during which my children’s father’s family utilized child protective services to leverage custody.
I have attended multiple parenting classes and years of therapy, yet despite my best efforts, the caregivers of my children want permanent custody.
I am currently contesting an adoption of my youngest daughter, which is very costly, and I cannot yet afford to initiate a custody proceeding for my oldest daughter.
I need to also expand my house to add an additional bedroom.
Work has become impossible for me because of my PTSD, major depression, and seizures. The custody battle has significantly exacerbated my physical and mental health issues.
I have a mediation appointment scheduled for January, and I am in debt to the Guardian Ad Litem, Mediator, and Attorneys.
It has been 840 days since the day of separation and 840 days of me fighting for a better life for us. After 840 days, I have run out of money and health, just a month before mediation. All hope in me is nearly lost as I have come to the point to ask my community for help.
Thank you for hearing my story and thank you for helping.
Organizer

Ashleigh Hawthorne
Organizer
Cedar Hill, SC