My name is Samuel Weidenhofer. I recently knocked on the door of Anthony and his family to meet them in person.

I met Rene Pineda’s family — Rene is a devoted father to his two children: Suri, a middle schooler, and Nicholas, an elementary schooler with Down syndrome.

Recently, Rene has been away from home, and his absence has been incredibly hard on his family. Nicholas misses his dad constantly and struggles to sleep, while Suri experiences anxiety and worry whenever she is away from home.

Their mother is doing her best to care for them, but the stress is overwhelming.

Rene has always been a hardworking, loving, and kind father who brings joy and stability to his family. Right now, his children need him home more than ever.

We’re sharing this story to ask for support whether through helping the family directly, contributing to legal support, or simply sharing this message to raise awareness. Every bit of help brings this family one step closer to being together again.

From my heart, thank you for caring about Anthony, Rene, and their children.