Many of you know me from my years as a model, and some of you know me now as a preschool teacher and single mom.

I am in the middle of ongoing litigation that has stretched on for years. The most recent custody modification has continued for more than two years, with hearings delayed and rescheduled through no fault of my own, each time requiring additional retainers and preparation.

My children deserve to have their voices represented fairly, but I am facing an urgent financial barrier.

This legal process has been a long and difficult journey, especially with the unique needs of my children, who require extra support. Navigating those needs within the framework of a custody case has added layers of complexity that I could never have imagined.

I have stretched every resource: I’ve borrowed, sold belongings, depleted savings, and I’m in the process of selling my home.

The costs go far beyond one retainer — they include ongoing legal fees, multiple court appearances, case-related requirements, and lost income from the work I must miss to prepare for and attend hearings. Every contribution helps me continue to retain my attorney and stand up for my children’s rights, voices, and stability.

In an unexpected twist — in the midst of trial preparation, my car’s engine unexpectedly failed, costing more to repair than the vehicle itself. I’ve had to rent a car for essential work, family, and court transportation. It couldn’t have happened at a more inopportune time.

I know times are hard, and asking for help is never easy. I was humbled by the outpouring of support when my community rallied for me during COVID to create a sensory gym for my children, and I never thought I would need to ask again.

But this case is urgent, and I cannot do it alone. If you can contribute — any amount — it makes a real difference. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this with others who may want to help.

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Note on Additional Funds:

The initial $10,000 will cover my attorney’s retainer.

Additional funds will go toward legal debt, ongoing legal fees, expert witnesses, reunification therapy, and covering the income I lose when I must miss work for hearings and preparation.

In addition, I have relied on loans and help from family who have stretched themselves thin to support me through this process. Any funds raised beyond current costs will also help relieve that burden, so we can begin to move forward without the weight of past legal debt.

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I want to close by expressing my deep gratitude to the many communities that continue to stand by me: my friends and family, my legal team, my modeling community, my children’s schools and providers, and my colleagues in early childhood education.

Your support, expertise, and understanding have carried me through some of the hardest seasons of my life, and I am profoundly thankful for each and every one of you.

With love and gratitude,

Debbie