Please Keep Our Family Together

July 12, 2009

TO: HONORABLE PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA AND DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE U.S SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

My family is in a crisis situation, and we urgently need your help. We have done everything we could with the help of an immigration attorney and many prayers. We beg you for your compassion, so my family can remain united in our country, the U.S.A.

My husband, Rigoberto Santos, was brought to the U.S. from Mexico when he was 13-years-old. We met in school and despite our language and cultural differences, we fell in love. We have been together for 14 years and have three beautiful sons.

We started the process of getting Rigo's immigration papers in order years ago. We even had to sell our house to use the money for the legal fees.

My husband was only a child when he was brought to the U.S. Rigo has lived here most of his life, and feels more like an American than a Mexican.

All my family members are native-born U.S. citizens. Even thinking about leaving the U.S. has caused great emotional hardships for us all including my mother who is in poor physical and mental health.

We are her support system. She depends on me for transportation and other vital needs, while our sons, her grandchildren are the joy of her life.

Since the deportation came upon us, we have not been able to enjoy life because it is ever-constant in our minds. The stress is overwhelming, especially now that Rigo has been ordered to leave the U.S., next month. It would be extremely difficult for all of us to start new lives in that foreign country.

On behalf of my entire family, I beg you all in the White House and Capitol for mercy. PLEASE allow us to remain together in the USA, the only country in our hearts.

Thank you so much for your valuable time and consideration, Mr. President and Distinguished Officials.