On July 4th, our world was turned upside down. Dustin tragically passed away, leaving behind me and our wonderful son Joel, whom is the center of our worlds. Dustin loved Joel, more than life itself, and together we were the perfect family unit. While funeral expenses are worrisome, the legal aspects ahead are overwhelming. We all want Joel to stay where he is, but there’s still a legal process we must go through. Unfortunately we were not at all prepared for this, in fact it was the complete opposite! We were planning a wedding with a legal adoption of Joel to follow. We had planned to surprise everyone with an elopement during our upcoming cruise in August, along with our son Joel, and then start the adoption process as soon as we got home. We planned to have a big engagement party and surprise everyone with the announcement that we were already married. We were having wedding bands made with diamonds, our birth stones, Joel’s birth stones and a third matching ring for Joel to wear on an chain. Our plans to get married were to start the process of preventing this exact situation, we just had no idea how time sensitive it would be. Our love did not need a title or ring to make it official, but we were both ready and willing to put it on paper and make it official, forever. Had I known, we would’ve married at the courthouse years ago. For 8 whole years we lived together and raised our son together and he doesn’t remember life prior to me. All he has really know is that my family has been his family (and of course Dustin’s family as well). Me and Dustin together, along with our families, is all Joel has ever known. Although nobody is trying to take Joel away, there’s still a legal process and court hearings to make it all happen. Becoming a single parent overnight, I’ve realized how important work is now more than ever. But I will have to slow down a bit while I settle into this tragedy. Any funds donated will be used to help cover funeral expenses, legal costs, and to help secure a “new normal” for us. More than anything, I hate asking for money in this way, but this isn’t about me! I need to make a secure future for Joel! So anything you can contribute to help make that happen, big or small, I am in great gratitude for your support, compassion and generosity. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers! Our journey isn’t over and we appreciate all of the love and support.
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