Susan Freer.

Sued to have her civil union considered in her attempt to regain custody of her three sons

Susan Freer commands respect, especially when you first learn that she is appealing a Georgia court ruling for recognition of her civil union with Debra Freer. But she demands much more than that when you realize that the recognition she seeks from the state could help her gain custody of her three sons.

Since her ceremony, Susan Freer has not been able to visit her children, who have been in their father's custody since the two divorced 5 1/2 years ago. The reason: Under their separation agreement, either parent jeopardizes visitation or custodial rights by living with someone who is not a spouse or relative. Freer is arguing that the civil union should qualify as a marriage. She lost her case before a lower court on January 30 but learned in April that the Georgia court of appeals will hear her case, probably in the fall.

"If I could speak with my children right now," Susan Freer says, "I'd tell them, `Boys, I love you with all my heart and soul, and that will never change. I've always wanted the best for you, and I'd be with you if I could. I will always be with you, and you will always be my beloved sons."