Book Launch of Please Don’t Let Me Go Papa! by Ricaardoe Di Done

The video below captures the launch of Please Don’t Let Me Go Papa!, the powerful autobiography of Ricaardoe Di Done — author, father, and long-standing advocate for children’s rights. Held at the St. Leonard Library in Montreal on June 21, 2004, the event gathered supporters, community members, and professionals to mark the release of this deeply personal and socially important book.

In Please Don’t Let Me Go Papa!, Ricaardoe Di Done recounts his emotional 16-year journey to stay connected with his son amidst a difficult custody battle. Through his lived experience, he highlights the emotional and systemic challenges faced by families navigating the legal system. More than a personal story, the book also reflects Di Done’s mission to reform family law in Canada. His efforts led to the founding of the Organization for the Protection of Children’s Rights (OPCR) in 1983 and the creation of Children Now, where he currently serves as CEO.

The book launch was not only a literary event — it was a call to reflect on how we support families in crisis and protect the rights of children.