Stand with Ryan in His Custody Battle

Hi, my name is Robert, and I’m reaching out to ask for your support in helping my dear friend, Ryan. For the past two years, Ryan has faced a grueling custody battle that has devastated him emotionally, financially, and mentally. Despite everything, Ryan refuses to give up because being a loving and present father to his child means everything to him.

If you know Ryan, you know he’d never ask for help or let on that he’s struggling. He’s one of the most positive people I know—always spreading joy and excitement. That’s why I’ve created this GoFundMe without his knowledge and won’t tell him until we’re ready to share the results.

Legal battles are exhausting and incredibly expensive. Ryan has already drained his savings, and pretty much all of his income goes directly into his legal fees which are ever growing as Ryan has to battle for every single right.

This GoFundMe will directly cover Ryan’s legal bills and related expenses. None of the money will go directly to him—it’ll be applied to outstanding debts and costs under the guidance of a financial advisor to ensure it’s used ethically and effectively. If, by some miracle, we exceed his debt, the extra funds will go into a college trust for his son.

I asked Ryan to write a small essay about his experience without directly telling him the purpose. He was okay with his story being shared and I'll quote him below.

" My Ex and I met at a time when life seemed full of promise. Our connection felt effortless, and together, we dreamed of building a life and raising a family. Those dreams shattered when she ended our relationship during her pregnancy. In an instant, I went from imagining a future as a partner and father to being left on the outside, grasping for any way to stay involved in our son’s life.

When my son was born, I fell in love in a way I never thought possible. His tiny hands, his cries, and later, his laughter became the center of my world. But the joy of fatherhood has come with an uphill battle. For the past two years, I’ve fought relentlessly in court for my right to be present in my son's life. The legal system, the financial strain, and the constant heartbreak of missed moments have tested me in ways I never imagined.

For less than 4% of my son's life, I have been allowed to be with him; this has left me feeling helpless at times. Yet, every time I see my son's smile, I am reminded of my purpose. I fight for him, for his future, and for the unwavering bond that connects us.

Through the darkest moments, my son has been my guiding light. He deserves a father who shows up, who loves without limits, and who fights no matter the odds. This journey has shaped me, not just as a father but as an advocate for others like me.

My son is my joy, my strength, and my reason. And I will never stop fighting for the right to give him the life and love he deserves. "

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Any support you can offer—whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this page—means the world. Let’s help Ryan get the rights to be a father he deserves.