Legal Fees for son's guardianship

My son is severely autistic, lives in a group home and is about to turn 18. At the age of 18 one of his parents has to be named his legal guardian, which means they can legally make decisions for him and manage his affairs. Guardianship has to be filed in the county in which the child resides, which is Ashtabula County, Ohio for Matthew. I live in Lorain County and his mother lives in Medina County.

The fee for filing for guardianship in Ashtabula County is $400, money which neither his mother or I have. I am starting this campaign in hopes that our friends and others might be able to help with these expenses.

Those who know me know how much my children mean to me. The idea that my son could become a ward of the state and be moved around without my consent breaks my heart. I know that these campaigns come up a lot, but I would appreciate any help you could spare.

My son turns 18 on February 2nd. The papers need to be filed as soon as possible.