My name is Jason Albert. I am a 31 year old male from northern New Jersey. 

   The reason I'm trying this crowdfunding campaign is to try and raise money so I can visit my son Gabriel in South Africa. It's pushing three years since I've been able to give him a hug and kiss, and with every day that passes my heart gets heavier and heavier. Even though his mother and I are no longer together, we are still very civil with each other. I hold no grudges or regrets, and neither does she. We where both young and in love, and somehow let it fall apart. A few years after our separation I was denied a residency status and returned to the states to live and work. My hopes was to work seasonally. Save money during the year and return in the winter months to visit for his school breaks. Unforseen circumstances made this impossible. Sickness led to doctors led to bills , and every time my bank account grew life happened and I had to spend it. Broken vehicle, tires , maintenance ect. After failing to reach my goal on my own, and knowing most of my friends and family are also not in a financial situation to help me out. I'm taking a shot in the dark and a prayer to the wind and hoping with all of my heart that this works.

   If I am able to reach my goal I will be able to fly to South Africa and set myself up with accommodations and mode of transportation for myself and my son for a few months. Including national park visits and other recreational activities. Any remaining funds at the end of the visit can be put towards school fees, and clothing ect.ect.

  Becoming a father was the greatest thing to ever happen to me in my life. I still remember the feeling of panic when his mother said to me "the baby's coming", and the euphoria when I held his tiny 2.3kg body for the first time. The joy of the first steps, and exhaustion after he learned to run. The panic of the first big fall, and pride in swimming without water wings. I know I've missed more moment in the past few years, and would love some help to ensure I don't miss any more.

                                Thank you, and go well