Reunited for the first time

I was born not even knowing my father’s name. I found out several possibilities as I grew up, but never anything of substance. My mother abandoned me to my grandparents until I was about 5, and they did not know either. Later I was adopted and my records were sealed. I cannot get them without legal involvement. Over the years I have tried, using the few names I had, to find or discover who my father is. Approximately 5 weeks ago I found out!!! Through the Ancestry and 23 and Me DNA databases I had a relative contact me. He is my 2nd cousin. We discussed and he put me in contact with my 1st cousin, his mother. That led to learning her uncle’s (my father) name. These are the first relatives I have ever known existed on my father’s side. They are great people and I thank them very much.

Last Sunday I gathered the courage to call him. I discovered he knew nothing of my existence. Seems my mother, who he dated while in the military, failed to inform him of her pregnancy. This was not a one night stand, but a significant relationship. This lines up with information I have gathered over the years. He knew my grandparents, my aunt. He knew where they lived at that time. Evidently my mother refused to travel with him in the military, so they broke up. He is overwhelmed at learning he has a son. As I am overwhelmed at knowing who he is and his acceptance of me. I also discovered I have a sister and they both want to have a relationship with me. So, for the first time in 57 years, I know who my father is. I have no other family outside my wife and children.

But we have never met face to face. He lives over 1500 miles away. I do not have the resources to go, he does not have the resources to come. And because of his age, middle 70's, it is hard for him to travel. We have talked over the phone, sent a few pictures. But we really want to get together. Driving would require a 6 day round trip and I cannot be off work that long when considering time for actual visiting. Plane tickets for me and my wife cost approximately $1000. Hotel another $600. And we have to kennel our Bella, about another $400. Throw in food and incidentals and it is another $350 to $500 for a week long trip. Rental car another $500. We just do not have this extra. They do not either. I usually do not ask for help for myself, ok almost never. However I would be eternally grateful and humbled if you would help us. With Fathers Day coming up I would really like to share it with him in person. Please help me meet my father and sister for the first time.