Our family has suffered a tragic and senseless loss. Our cousin, Amanda Hicks, 26, was murdered by her fiance. He then shot and killed himself with their baby in the very next room. This act was done with no thought or regard for the child’s safety. Originally, Baby Alani was placed in temporary custody with the perpetrator’s parents.  Initially, our family had reached out to the Diaz Family to see Baby Alani, however, we had been told they wanted nothing to do with us. On the contrary, we are willing to foster an amicable and open relationship with the paternal side of the family.  Since then we have been able to obtain 50-50 custody in two week increments. We have been blessed with the opportunity to have Alani stay with us in NJ for half of every month. As the out of staters, we are blessed with the responsibility of flying Alani back and forth to NJ and FL every 2 weeks.  

We still have a long road ahead of us, and we are continuing to fight to bring Baby Alani home to her maternal side of the family. We have even hired a second attorney. Since Amanda’s parents have both passed and her brother is only 24 years-old, my husband and I (Amanda’s first cousin) are eager to provide Baby Alani a beautiful life in a stable home with two siblings close to her age. She will grow up in a safe neighborhood and have access to great schools. She will be surrounded by a large, loving family that will provide her with unconditional love and support.

Currently, the adoption goal date has been set for July 5th of 2024. In light of this timeline, we have increased our fundraising goal to $50,000. 

Please help us fight for the Best Interests of Baby Alani by contributing to this fundraiser. Thank you.