My name is a synonym for love among my children and kin. I am their great mother, big sister, and a role model. I am not just carrying these roles; I am wearing them with pride and utmost responsibility. However, my children are presently away from me, entrusted to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

The wrenching facts are harsh; in the United States, on any given day, there are nearly 443,000 children in foster care (American Society for the Positive Care of Children). This large number sadly includes my own children. Despite my best efforts to provide a stable, loving home, my children are part of a system designed to protect but often leaves families torn apart.

I believe in the importance of the child welfare system, and I am grateful it exists to protect children from harmful situations. But I also firmly think that this very system needs to understand the importance of family bonds and their conservation. Children need the love and care of their parents.

I implore the DCFS to reassess my case - to see my dedication to my children and my ability to provide them a safe and loving home. I ask the court to consider my evidence and testimonies that vouch for my sound parenting.

This petition gives a voice to my plea and countless others who yearn to provide their children with the love, support, and care they deserve. Please stand with us in our fight to reunite families unnecessarily broken. Lend your support; sign the petition.