What Do I Tell Her?

Melany Hansen - Oakton, VA

I have 4 children, two of which are adopted from Guatemala. I was introduced to a young woman and I’d like to share her story with you and ask for your advice to her.

She is 23 years old and is from Guatemala. She is the oldest of 13 children, born into extreme poverty, purchased her 1st pair of used shoes at 13 years old, was abused by her father and basically worked as a slave.  She ran away to the city to escape the situation (abuse, hunger, poverty…). While attending church in the city, she was introduced to a nursing program at a large city hospital. She completed a 3 year program earning a degree and worked as a nurse.  Still challenged by hunger, danger, loneliness, and harsh working conditions, she was lured by the dream of life in America.

You know the story, she paid $13K to a man who brought her to the U.S.,where I met her one month later.

I’ve now known her for 3+ years now. She is extremely honest, loving, hardworking, caring and has a list of reputable references. Her native language was Mam. She has learned spanish, english, how to ride a bike, swim, and use the computer.  She is taking GED classes online and become quite accustomed to and experienced with U.S. life. She does volunteer work and attends church regularly. She has secured clients who she cleans for, babysits for, and does organization projects for.  She works many hours and earns $28K/ year.  She has paid all of her bills/loans, sent money home to her family, and saved money (hopefully to pay taxes when/if she achieves legal status).  Her dream is to continue her education, get a job, work, drive and have a family. She could be a poster child for pro-immigration reform!

She and I fully understand the other side of the immigration issues, however, for people like this young woman…where do they turn? What do I tell her? Her dreams are simple and her desire to do right burns deep.