Support Bobby's Fight for Fatherhood and Justice

Many of you know me, but for those who don't, here's a quick introduction. I’m Bobby, a trans man, father, partner, advocate, and mechanic in NW Ohio! Outside of my job as a technician, I spend my time providing resources and community events for trans folk in my area with my board as the president and cofounder of TransToledo. TransToledo is Toledo's only trans-focused nonprofit. We work with several other nonprofits in the area to try and tackle discrimination and provide whatever is needed. I’m also a VERY dedicated and loving father. My beautiful 9-year-old daughter Serenity is involved with every part of my life, including our never-ending volunteering.

So, why am I here asking for help? About two years ago, I separated from my daughter’s mother as our marriage had become toxic. We both made mistakes, and I’m not here to trash her.

In May, she took my daughter from me, under accusations that I was planning on taking custody (which I can’t as the legal stepfather, she wasn’t unfit, and I wouldn’t want to take a parent from our daughter) and told me I had to sign paperwork stating I wouldn’t try to take my daughter from her. I obliged because I just wanted to see my daughter.

But again, as of 6/21/2024, I have been denied the ability to see or even speak to my daughter, the one I have raised day in and out since she was about 6 months old. And to say I’m devastated doesn’t cover the amount of loss I am feeling without her. I always wanted to be a father, and the last near decade with this perfect kid has been a dream come true, I never thought could or would end.

In reality, I couldn’t have fought for rights as my daughter’s biological father would be a barrier in that, even though he abandoned her for nearly half of her life so far.

Of course, I’m mad. Of course, I was upset over the fact she is taking my daughter from me.

On my birthday, 7/2/24, Shelby filed a Domestic Violence Civil Protection Order against me. The county sheriff came to my place of employment to serve me the court date. Full of absolute insane claims about me that are so falsified and outrageous I can’t wrap my head around them.

I cannot get legal representation pro bono because I am the respondent in the case. The fact I was filed against, people are so quick to assume I’m some abuser when I’m the furthest from it. This is emotionally crippling me, I just want to move on. I miss my daughter. As of today, I haven’t spoken to my daughter in 19 days.

I was granted a continuance so I can find legal representation. I have until 7/30/2024.

I'm living very paycheck to paycheck because my ex abandoned our trailer with my 5 cats inside and had the utilities shut off, so I have spent a very substantial amount of money repairing damages from her and making the home livable. I’m still without a kitchen sink now.

Whatever I don’t need to use from this will be put towards a divorce lawyer. Thank you so much for your time and generosity as I’m facing such a difficult time ️‍⚧️