Hi, my name is Sahar. I’m a cadre substitute teacher with Chicago Public Schools and the mother of two incredible girls. I’ve been their primary, steady parent since they were just 1 and 2 years old.

Chicago is our home. My daughters go to school here, receive all their medical and mental health care here, and have built their lives here. I manage their daily routines, extracurricular activities, school communication, doctor visits, and therapy. These are the things that help children feel safe and secure. Both of my daughters are currently in therapy because of the emotional harm and instability this situation has caused.

I have been their consistent, everyday parent.

After I married my wife, their father suddenly filed a custody case in Ohio, which is where he resides, even though the children live and are established in Chicago. I was forced into an out-of-state legal battle simply to protect my children and the life I’ve built for them.

During this process, my daughters were wrongfully kept from me for periods of time. Upon their return, they displayed anxiety, withdrawal, and emotional transformation. It was absolutely terrifying to watch my daughters in such distress. 

I am not doing this out of anger. 
I am doing this because my children deserve emotional safety, stability, and peace.

I am requesting sole custody from the court because my daughters deserve stability, emotional safety, and consistency from their caregiver. I strive to protect them from emotional distress, manipulation, and adult power struggles. Children should not be used as leverage. They should be focused on school, friends, healing, and enjoying childhood.

I am showing up clear-headed, grounded, and fully present for my girls. I will not step back while they are struggling. I am choosing to fight for my daughter’s livelihood in a calm and legal manner with my children at the center. The financial cost of this legal battle is more than I can manage on my own .

Funds raised will go toward:


• Legal representation and trial costs


• Travel expenses to Ohio for court


• Required court filings and legal fees

Any support, whether through donating or sharing, means more than I can say. Thank you for being here.

I’m not giving up.
 I’m choosing my children every single day.

With gratitude,


Sahar