Once teens with disabilities turn 18, their parents are required to apply for continued guardianship to stay in charge of their child’s decisions.
“She’s mine, and I’m going to do everything I can to make sure shes taken care of,” said Sarah Fuentes, mother of 17-year-old Mariah Gomez who has autism and is legally blind.
Fuentes said all parental rights go out the window once Gomez turns 18 on January 2, but she is fighting that.
“It’s kinda upsetting that you have to do all this. The reason it’s so high now is because there have been a lot of changes since June. You have to do a certification test, a fingerprint test and a background check,” Fuentes said.
Before all of that, Fuentes said she has file everything through the court, which requires hiring an attorney. Fuentes is working with attorney Howard Bailey, who requires a $850 upfront fee to start the process. According to Fuentes, the total cost could be up to $4,000.
“Once we have the $850, then we have to be prepared to spend up to 4,000. Not more than 4,000, but up to,” Fuentes said.
Fuentes said she isn’t looking for a handout but for some help. She has started some fundraising and has also started a GoFundMe. If you’d like to donate, click HERE.
