## For Ayden: A Father’s Plea to Stay Present

My name is Pedro Pena. I’m not perfect—but I’m a father who loves his children with everything I have left.

This fundraiser is for my son Ayden—my firstborn, my heart, my reason for trying when everything else has fallen apart.

I’ve spent the last several years battling things no parent should have to face alone: wrongful incarceration, homelessness, untreated medical conditions, and a system that punishes poverty like it’s a crime. Through it all, I’ve tried to stay connected to my kids. I’ve tried to be present. But the truth is, I’ve been drowning—and Ayden is the one I’m trying to keep above water right now.

---

### The Hardest Part

I have more than one child. And I love them all equally.

But the truth is, I can only fight one battle at a time right now.

Ayden’s situation is the most urgent. His needs are falling through the cracks. His support system is limited. And while my other children are blessed with more understanding and flexibility from their mother, Ayden’s care is tied to a system that doesn’t see the full picture of what I’ve been through.

It breaks my heart to say this, but I can’t help them all at once. Not yet.

So I’m starting here—with Ayden.

Because if I can get on my feet, I can fight for all of them.

---

### What Your Support Will Cover – Goal: $30,000

Every dollar will go directly to Ayden’s well-being. I can provide documentation for every cost—receipts, court filings, medical records, and more. This is about giving my son a fair chance at a stable, supported life with his father in it.

| **Category** | **Estimated Cost** | **Details** |

|----------------------------------|--------------------|-------------|

| Education & School Support | $6,000 | School supplies, tutoring, laptop/tablet, exam prep |

| Food & Nutrition | $4,000 | Groceries during visits, healthy meals, supplements |

| Extracurricular Activities | $5,000 | Re-enrollment in boxing, gear, transportation, gym fees |

| Medical & Mental Health | $6,000 | Health insurance enrollment, therapy, dental/vision care |

| Clothing & Essentials | $3,000 | Seasonal clothing, shoes, hygiene products |

| Transportation & Visitation | $4,000 | Travel to see Ayden, medical appointments, court dates |

| Legal & Document Recovery | $2,000