jessicaelgin69
05-24-2008, 11:49 PM
How does this look and what do you think of part after conclusion i thought it might be easier for ajudacator to readBACKGROUND
I, Jessica Garcia, a United States Citizen, am requesting this waiver petition for my husband, Oscar Garcia. We met in 1997 and unfortunately due to financial reasons we were unable to marry until June 18, 2005. During these years together, we had three children, and the fourth child after we were married. Unfortunately they have all been diagnosed with disabilities making child rearing more challenging and requiring total commitment from both of us. I also was diagnosed with disabilities years ago.
HEALTH
Medical Concerns for Jessica Garcia/United States Citizen (U.S.C.)
I, Jessica Garcia, a United States Citizen, suffer from Bipolar II Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obesity and Anxiety. (See Exhibit 1). I am currently taking Geodon 40 mg, twice a day, Budeprion XL 300 mg (generic for wellbutrin XL) in morning, Lamictal 150 mg twice a day and Sertraline100 mg (generic for Zoloft) twice a day. (See Exhibit __) I also receive therapy services bi-weekly to help with my bipolar and depression. (See Exhibit 2). I need to stay consistent with my services so that I do not have a break down. These services listed above if not received would be detrimental to my emotional, mental and physical wellbeing I have received services with this psychiatrist for almost 11 years. It is important for me to continue seeing her as she knows me well and knows what I need. I also have seen the same counselor since September of 2007. It is pertinent to me that I stay consistent with my treatment so I can move forward with my life and for the future of my family.
I also have asthma and allergies and am currently taking the following medication for this: Singular 10mg and Nasacort. (See Exhibit ___and Exhibit____). I am also being treated for my weight as I am overweight. (See Exhibit___). It is very important to my health that I continue taking this medication as my weight effects all parts of my life.
I also need the above therapy and med services due to the fact we have four children with mental ,Developmental and learning disabilities. It is very important I stay consistent with my medication so I am able to provide the care our children need.
In addition my family has been seeing a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the past six years. Her name is Cindy Leparski MA. , L.C.P.C of Positive Care Counseling Services. (See Exhibit ____ ) Cindy has become very close part of our family and she has helped my family so much. Cindy comes once a week for 1 ½ hours to work on, parenting skills, behavior management, social emotional issues, how to handle family stressors. Cindy has shown me how to be more confident in myself and has shown me that I am someone important . Me and my family look forward to seeing and working with her each week. Cindy is always helping Oscar and I find new ways to cope with our children’s mental issues as it gets extremely hard at times. Cindy has been a very big support to me and my family and if I was not able to receive these services from her it would be devastating and a huge loss, as my children are all very close to her . Cindy’s services have helped my family grow stronger and help us realize how much potential we have for progression as long as we continue with her services.
I Jessica Garcia would face extreme hardship if my husband Oscar Garcia was not granted a visa promptly to return to the U.S.A . His presence in our home is needed to ensure a healthy and stable environment, part of which is Oscar reminding me to take my medications. Oscar is very involved in the care of our four children and he helps relive the stress and worry I feel when taking care of our children, Due to the problems that often arise as a result of my mental and physical health, it is not an option for me to move to Mexico.
MEDICAL CONCERNS OF OUR CHILDREN
Our daughter, Niqitia, age 10 suffers from Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Mood Disorder and Mixed Developmental Delay with Speech Impairment. Niqitia is currently taking the following medications: Ability 15 mg, Adderall XR 30 mg, Amphetamine Salt Combo 20 mg twice a day, Amphetamine salt combo 10 mg noon (Generic for Adderall), Risperdal 2 mg and Clonidine 1 mg two at bed time. She receives medication services and counseling at Streamwood Behavioral Health Facility (See Exhibits 3 and 4and).
Our daughter, Rebecca, age 8 suffers from Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, Bipolar disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. She is currently taking the following medications: Adderall XR 30 mg, Amphetamine Salt Combo 20 mg twice a day, Amphetamine salt combo 10 mg noon (Generic for Adderall), Risperdal 1mg morning ½ at non and 2 at night and Clonidine 1 mg two at bed for sleep. She also receives medication and counseling at Streamwood Behavioral Health Facility (See Exhibits 3 and 5and) Rebecca also has a borderline cardiac condition called Prolonged QT Syndrome or Long Qt Syndrome (See Exhibit __and__) Rebecca also suffers from severe Asthma and Allergies. (See Exhibit__) Rebecca is also taking the following medications for Flovent Inhaler for constant cough from asthma, and allergies, Nasacort, Loratadine , Ventolin Inhaler, Albuterol Solutions for her breathing treatment machine, and Singular 5mg. (See Exhibit __ and __)
Our son, Brandon, age 6 suffers from Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder mixed with Psychotic Features and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. He is currently taking the following medications: Adderall 20 mg in morning, Amphetamine Salt Combo 10 mg 1 in morning and at noon, Strattera 18 mg in morning, Risperdal 1 mg in morning and 1 at night and clonidine 1 mg 2 at bed for sleep. He also receives medication and counseling at Streamwood Behavioral Health Facility (See Exhibits 3 and 6 and 7 and). Our son has severe emotional and behavioral problems. He has auditory hallucinations (“Hears Voices”). He has tried to commit suicide, tried burning down our house due to these voices, and was hospitalized in 2006 for a month.
Our son, Adan, age 2 is currently receiving services through the Early Intervention Program for Developmental Delays. He currently receives Physical Therapy, Developmental Therapy, Speech Therapy and Social Work Services. All of the people delivering these services come to our house once a week for an hour to one and half hours. (See Exhibit 8) He is currently on a waiting list for diagnostic testing to see if his High tone is from a Slight Case of Cerebral Palsy and also is on a waiting list for Orthopedic Doctor for braces for his legs. Adan will be starting School in June, 2008 when transportation is available to help with his Developmental Delays. Adan also suffers from Asthma and Allergies and is taking Albuterol Solutions for his breathing treatment machine and Cetirizine for allergies. (See Exhibit___)
Medical Concerns - my mother
Oscar’s being detained in Mexico would also affect my mother, Rebecca Salazar, as she has Bipolar, Depression, Diabetes, Seizures, Fibormyalgia, Panic disorder and others. She counts on Oscar and me for a lot of help. (See Exhibit ____ and ____and ____ and _____ and ________).
Detainment would also affect my grandmother, Judy Miles, as she needs Oscar and I to help care for my mother and to help her. My grandma is getting older and cannot do all that is needed alone. We also help her around the house. Oscar is the only adult male left on that side of my family. (See Exhibit_____).
If my husband Oscar Garcia is not granted his Visa immediately I would be affected significantly. I would not be able to continue with my psychiatrist services to receive my medications and my therapy services because I do not have any one to watch our children I have no friends and the nearest family lives 2 ½ hours away in Dubuque, Iowa. Oscar is the one who takes care of our children so I can attend these services that I need to maintain a stable life for me, our marriage, our children and other family. This would have serious effects on our children. It would be detrimental to any progress they are making in therapy and school. This in turn would be harmful to me as I would have to handle all of the repercussions alone It is important that my husband return to United States As Soon As Possible to help in raising and caring for our four children.
Financial
The financial hardship to me if my husband, Oscar Garcia, was not granted visa immediately would be devastating. I do not work and have not worked since I was 17 years old due to my Bipolar II disorder ,borderline personality disorder as well as depression and severe anxiety . I stay home to care for our four children each of who have disabilities. (As Stated Above) For these reasons I need my husband to return to United States of America Immediately as I could not pay for our financial obligations alone.
The total of our financial obligations yearly is $ 58,000 a year. The total of our yearly obligations is broke down as follows: 1. Rent -$11,100.00 2. GMAC Car payment -$5,262.00 3.Sprint Bill/phone $3,194.00 4.GMAC car insurance is 6 months -$203.96 and 6 months $194.00 for 12 months = $2,384.00 5.Nicor/gas -$921.00 6. Com Ed/electric- $ 1075.00 7.Dish- $840.00 8.Comcast $720.00 9.Arc/garbage pick up $40.00 10.Village of Carpentersville/water bill $400.00 11.Washington Mutual Credit Card $780.00
Cost of Food for 52 weeks is $ 10,400.00. This bring our total living cost to $58,000 a year more or less. (See Exhibits____,_____,_____,_____,______,____).
The following payments are bound by signed legal agreements. We are currently renting a duplex which we have a lease agreement that we are legally bound (See Exhibit _______) I need the income he brings in so our children and I have a place to live. I also count on my husband to pay for food, bills and other household items. We currently have a car payment for $438.49 a month that is due on the 11th of each month. (See Exhibit: ________) This is a loan that we got from GMAC with the help of my Grandmother, Judith Miles, (See Exhibit: ________) because Oscar and I could not get a loan ourselves as Oscar does not have a social security number. The loan is our responsibility under the agreement with my grandmother. She agreed to cosign for me but we had to agree to make all payments on time and have them directly withdrawn from our bank account. (See Exhibit:________ ) If Oscar was not allowed to come back in a timely manner we would not be able to fulfill this agreement made with my grandmother. If the car were to be repossessed it would damage my grandmother’s and my credit. Without a car I would not be able to get my children to the therapy services and psychiatrist services they require would not be able to get two of my children to school and also would not be able to get to my therapy appointments and psychiatrist appointments. While some of the children and I receive Medicare it is not enough to cover our financial obligations.
Financially we could not live in Mexico due to the fact they have poor work wages and little opportunity for advancement as stated in the CIA WORLD FACT BOOK. (See Exhibit_____ page___.) My husband could not support six people on the low wages in Mexico.
In Mexico we would have to pay for private school as our children do not speak Spanish. (See Exhibit ______)As stated from solutionsabroud.com this is the only option for children whose mother language is not Spanish. The cost of tuition for 4 children in private schools would be ______ opposed to the zero tuition in United States. (See Exhibits___ and ____.). So that would mean that tuition, books, meals, uniforms, transportation, would come from what he would make and as well as the rent, food bills and other household costs. It would be impossible to survive. Tuition is very expensive .
Another financial responsibility in Mexico would be to pay for all of our medications for all of our medical problems. There are currently about 30 to 34 different prescriptions. (See exhibit _______ ) The cost with no insurance here in the United States comes to $ 4.200.00 US Dollars sometimes more. Even though medication is cheaper in Mexico it would still be an extreme amount of money to have to pay. These prescriptions now are covered by Medicaid due to the fact we all have medical conditions that require medication and are considered disabled in the U.S . We do not pay for any medication unless there is a co-pay of $3.00 (dollars).
In Mexico Medicare will not for pay our prescriptions. (See Exhibit______ and Exhibit______) as stated on TravelState.Gov website and SocialSecurityAdminastration.Gov. Website. My husband would have to pay the cost out-of-pocket. Oscar could not pay for these prescriptions, School tuition, rent and food on the low wages of Mexico. We need these medications for maintenance of our mental health conditions so there is no choice of stopping them as it would be detrimental to our health and progression. Personal prescription information with cost if not paid by Medicaid is highlighted for all medications (See exhibit____)
The cost of schooling in Mexico would not be possible to afford on the low wages of Mexico. The cost are as follows
1. One time enrollment fee for 4 kids is $15,600.00 U.S. dollars
2. Registration fee 2 times a year-Total for 4 $8,878 .00 U.S. dollars
3. Annual activity fee for 4 children $460.00 U.S. dollars
4. Mandatory bus service for 4 children is $ 475.00 per month in U.S dollars
5. Tuition fee for 4 children is $ 8,376.00 per month
Cost for academic success (Special Education) is as follows 1 hour of service $464.00 U.S dollars, 2 hours of service $ 923.00 U.S. dollars , 3 hours of service $1,340.00 U.S. dollars (See Exhibit_______) this would be time 3 for me.
So with out special education services the total yearly cost would be $ 131,150.00 U.S Dollars
In the USA my husband has opportunities for advancement due to the fact he has been at his current job for almost seven years in September of 2008. (See Exhibit ________) Letter from husband’s employer He also speaks English and Spanish which is an advantage in the United State.
It is in my opinion that for these financial responsibilities listed above, That we share , My husband Oscar Garcia be Granted a Visa , because with out my husband here helping maintain these obligations and life for our family it would be extremely hard for me.
Education
Education is a huge issue for me due to the fact my children do not speak Spanish and I have 2 children with learning disabilities and 3 children with behavioral problems. Due to these issues they receive Special Education Services (See Exhibit___ for Niqitia and___ for Rebecca and ____ for Brandon.
Public schools in Mexico only teach in Spanish and many have poor quality of education. My children would not receive the special educations services needed for progress in their future education and it would not be at the same standards of U.S. Education. (See exhibit___) In fact as stated on Solutionsabroud.com the only option for a child whose mother language is not Spanish, is to attend a private school for the best in terms of bilingual education. They also stated that there are only five or six schools in the 3 largest cities of Mexico. The article also stated that there are only 2 schools that offer education almost completely in English are the American School and Green Gates.
Solutionsabroad.com also states to be wary of bus transportation, especially in Mexico City. It also states that you have to get an official apostle from the relevant public office before children move to Mexico, to certify that they can continue to study at an equivalent school and grade level in Mexico. I questions if our children would meet these requirements. Also stated was that we have to pay monthly tuition, enrollment fee , transportation and text books and clothes (all schools require uniforms), (See Exhibit___). We could not afford tuition for 4 children and apart from this it states on one of the school websites you have to pay an extra fee to receive special education services. The fees are as follows
1. One time enrollment fee for 4 kids is $15,600.00 U.S. dollars
2. Registration fee 2 times a year-Total for 4 $8,878 .00 U.S. dollars
3. Annual activity fee for 4 children $460.00 U.S. dollars
4. Mandatory bus service for 4 children is $ 475.00 per month in U.S dollars
5. Tuition fee for 4 children is $ 8,376.00 per month
Cost for academic success (Special Education) is as follows 1 hour of service $464.00 U.S dollars, 2 hours of service $ 923.00 U.S. dollars , 3 hours of service $1,340.00 U.S. dollars (See Exhibit_______) this would be time 3 for me.
So with out special education services the total yearly cost would be $ 131,150.00 U.S Dollars
In the United States our children receive more than 3 hours of special education each. I have one who spends her entire day in special education, that’s about 7 hours. For the facts stated above it is in our children’s best interest to continue their education in the United States where they do not have to adjust to a different language or be put farther back if they do not test at their current grade level in Mexico. It is pertinent to keep their schooling consistent so they can make progress and not fall behind due to the fact they have learning disabilities and mental health issues.
It is important that my husband Oscar be granted a visa immediately to return to U.S.A to be with our children and me. If not I am concerned to the effect it will have on our children’s education as they may become depressed from missing their father as I will also be.
Family Ties to the United States:
See Exhibits____, ________, _______, ______) Letters from Jessica’s family in support of waiver.
I would like to start by saying the my whole family lives in the United States about 2 1/2 hours to 6 hours away at the most. My children and family are the center of our lives. My husband works 6 days a week and often 10-12 hours a day so his family is all that he has time for. My whole family is a very close knit family. This is especially true on my mother’s side as it is only my grandmother, my mother, my family, my two younger sisters and their children. My husband and I and our children spend at least two weekends out of every month with my mother and grandmother helping them with things around the house and getting the things done that they can’t manage, as well as just spending time with them. On the other weekends we usually have my dad’s family at our house or we go to theirs. We are very family orientated. We always have some reason to be together even when there is not a real reason except that we enjoy family. We are always going to the park, cooking out, going to the zoo, museum, plays, live performances on ice and puppet shows. Whatever it is - just being together and being with family is important to us. These activities show our children good family values. If I were forced to move to Mexico to be with my husband I would because I could not live with out him. But if my children and I had to move to Mexico I probably would go into a severe depression because I would never get to see my family. They could not afford to travel to Mexico. Many have children and grandchildren they are supporting, and several have fixed incomes. The cost of their travel would be too high and out of the question. My mother is on a fixed income because she is disabled, (See Exhibit___ ) disability letter S.S.A). We would never see each other and this would devastate me. I live 2 1/2 hours away and see her every other weekend almost and still have to talk to her 3-4 times a day, sometimes more. My mother and I have an incredible bond. I am her biggest supporter and she can confide in me about anything. If I was to live in Mexico she could not call me nor could I call her because phone lines can be poor even hard to get to and cost a lot of money. Due to her fixed income this would be impossible. It would be very difficult for me to be in Mexico as it is way too far from my family the only family I have. Apart from this my children love going to see my grandmother and my mother. They spend most of the summer doing activities at their homes as activities are cheaper there. They take part in swimming, baseball, basketball, soccer, t-ball, and activities at the library, bible camp at 2 different times during the summer. Moving to Mexico would take these wonderful opportunities from them that they look forward to and enjoy so much. Due to my children’s mental health this would cause more stress to them. A move to Mexico would not only affect my life but would affect the life of my mother and grandmother as it helps them having my children around. It keeps my mom a little saner because she has something to look forward and it keeps my grandma busy so she just doesn't sit around and get depressed. (See Exhibit _____ ) I personally feel my children helped cope with the death of my grandpa by going there and showing mom and grandma that they needed to be strong for the children. I think you could ask any one who knows my grandmother and mother what my children mean to them and they would tell you the world. They talk about my children my husband and me all of the time. I constantly hear from my grandmother and mother’s friends how lucky they are to have Oscar and me and our children and how much we are appreciated by them.
Also I have my dad’s family. We are also very family-orientated and close. We spend as much time as possible with them. We usually spend the 4th of July with them at my dad’s. This is when my whole family from my dad’s side of the family comes and spends the whole weekend together. We cook out every day, play in my dad’s giant pool, go to the fireworks and play games in the yard. It's these family bonds and spending time that keep our family so close.
If I were to have to move to Mexico with my children so we could be with my husband I would in a heart beat but it would affect my life extremely because we would have none of this in Mexico. My children would forget who my family was here in the United States and it would destroy our family bond. It would destroy me as my kids and husband are my world and I could not choose between them. We have to stay together as a whole family – mother, father and children in the U.S.A.
If my husband Oscar is not granted a visa immediately this will affect all of my family and friends as they all love him and support him.
Please (See Exhibits ____, _____, _____, ______, ________, _______, _______).
Special Factors and Concerns
For the following facts it is important that my husband be granted a visa to return to United States to be with me and our children as I could not put the lives of my children and me and my husband in jeopardy by moving and living in Mexico.
Fact # 1. There has been a huge increase in violence and drug trafficking and murder in Mexico. (See Exhibit ____ )
Fact # 2. There is a huge rise in kidnappings; both to Mexicans and foreigners, and children are the most targeted group. There is a lack of quality police so there is no sign of decline. Drugs and the increase in violence are huge factors in kidnappings. Also stated that Mexico has a public safety problem growing at an alarming rate. (See Exhibit ____ )
Fact # 3. Adjusting to Mexico would be hard for me and the children as we would not know where anything is, have no family, the language barrier would make it hard for my children to make friends. We would constantly be missing our family in U.S. Their complete family structure would be broken and the consistency that they are used to would be lost.
Fact # 4. As stated on the travel state.gov website concerning behavior modification facilities , It states that a number of facilities have opened in Mexico, but the standards applied by the Government of Mexico and Local Government where they exist may not meet the standards for the same type of facilities in the United States. The website also stated that since 2004 Mexican officials closed six of these behavior modification facilities due to health code and other violations. This took place on short notice and caused serious concern to U.S. citizens and their families. (See Exhibit ____) Due to this fact alone I could not possibly move to Mexico with my children because 3 of them receive services from this type of facility. This would be harmful to them and their well being if this would occur. I would worry constantly about something like this happening.
Fact # 5. As stated on the SSA.gov website and travel state.gov website the social security Medicaid program does not provide coverage for hospitals or medical cost outside United State. Due to the fact that my children and I are provided coverage under this program because we are disabled it is pertinent we stay in the United States to receive our care. (See exhibit ____and__________.)
Fact # 6. Also stated on the travel state.gov website is that U.S law enforcement believes that as much as 25% of medications available in Mexico are counterfeit and substandard. Such counterfeit medication may be difficult to distinguish from the real medications and could pose serious health risk to consumers. (See exhibit___) I could not risk the health or lives of my children as we receive between 30-34 prescriptions a month (See exhibit____) In the U.S. we receive our medication from reputable pharmacies Walgreen’s and CVS. (See Exhibit___).
If my husband is not granted a visa to return to the U.S.A this will effect my life very severely and significantly . I need him for all aspects of my life.
Conclusion
My husband and I have been together almost 11 years. We have never been apart from each other like we will be while he is in Mexico. We have four beautiful children who look up to their father, and who really need him here in the U.S. for support and structure and for their mental, emotional, and physical well being . They are already saying that they don’t want him to go to Mexico. I need my husband here with me in the United States due to my mental and physical health .He is my rock, my only immediate support in our area. The whole time he is in Mexico will be very hard and depressing to me as I love him so much. I count on Oscar for so many things, especially just getting through the day. I need my husband to return immediately to U.S.A as I need his help in raising our four children. I need him for mental and emotional support for me and our kids as well as the structure and consistency that we all need for our well being. Oscar is also needed here in the United States to assist in our financial obligations. We are trying to support our family in every way possible.
I would like to thank you for reading my letter! When making your decision on the future of my family; please take into consideration all the facts listed above. Consider that if my husband were not granted his visa immediately it would be extremely hard for me to raise our four children alone due to my mental condition and theirs as well as the lack of financial support Please take into consideration the letters from our family and friends in support of my husband’s Oscar Garcia’s waiver. I thank you and I will await your decision.
I have also included these extra exhibits for referencing the following diagnoses in packet 2
Exhibit ( 1 ) Bipolar Disorder
Exhibit ( 2 ) Borderline Personality Disorders
Exhibit (3 ) Obesity
Exhibit (4 ) (ADHD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Exhibit (5 ) Fibormyalgia
Exhibit (6 ) Oppositional defiant Disorder
Exhibit (7 ) Diabetes
Exhibit (8 ) Panic Disorder
Exhibit ( 9 ) Developmental Delays
I, Jessica Garcia, a United States Citizen, am requesting this waiver petition for my husband, Oscar Garcia. We met in 1997 and unfortunately due to financial reasons we were unable to marry until June 18, 2005. During these years together, we had three children, and the fourth child after we were married. Unfortunately they have all been diagnosed with disabilities making child rearing more challenging and requiring total commitment from both of us. I also was diagnosed with disabilities years ago.
HEALTH
Medical Concerns for Jessica Garcia/United States Citizen (U.S.C.)
I, Jessica Garcia, a United States Citizen, suffer from Bipolar II Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obesity and Anxiety. (See Exhibit 1). I am currently taking Geodon 40 mg, twice a day, Budeprion XL 300 mg (generic for wellbutrin XL) in morning, Lamictal 150 mg twice a day and Sertraline100 mg (generic for Zoloft) twice a day. (See Exhibit __) I also receive therapy services bi-weekly to help with my bipolar and depression. (See Exhibit 2). I need to stay consistent with my services so that I do not have a break down. These services listed above if not received would be detrimental to my emotional, mental and physical wellbeing I have received services with this psychiatrist for almost 11 years. It is important for me to continue seeing her as she knows me well and knows what I need. I also have seen the same counselor since September of 2007. It is pertinent to me that I stay consistent with my treatment so I can move forward with my life and for the future of my family.
I also have asthma and allergies and am currently taking the following medication for this: Singular 10mg and Nasacort. (See Exhibit ___and Exhibit____). I am also being treated for my weight as I am overweight. (See Exhibit___). It is very important to my health that I continue taking this medication as my weight effects all parts of my life.
I also need the above therapy and med services due to the fact we have four children with mental ,Developmental and learning disabilities. It is very important I stay consistent with my medication so I am able to provide the care our children need.
In addition my family has been seeing a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the past six years. Her name is Cindy Leparski MA. , L.C.P.C of Positive Care Counseling Services. (See Exhibit ____ ) Cindy has become very close part of our family and she has helped my family so much. Cindy comes once a week for 1 ½ hours to work on, parenting skills, behavior management, social emotional issues, how to handle family stressors. Cindy has shown me how to be more confident in myself and has shown me that I am someone important . Me and my family look forward to seeing and working with her each week. Cindy is always helping Oscar and I find new ways to cope with our children’s mental issues as it gets extremely hard at times. Cindy has been a very big support to me and my family and if I was not able to receive these services from her it would be devastating and a huge loss, as my children are all very close to her . Cindy’s services have helped my family grow stronger and help us realize how much potential we have for progression as long as we continue with her services.
I Jessica Garcia would face extreme hardship if my husband Oscar Garcia was not granted a visa promptly to return to the U.S.A . His presence in our home is needed to ensure a healthy and stable environment, part of which is Oscar reminding me to take my medications. Oscar is very involved in the care of our four children and he helps relive the stress and worry I feel when taking care of our children, Due to the problems that often arise as a result of my mental and physical health, it is not an option for me to move to Mexico.
MEDICAL CONCERNS OF OUR CHILDREN
Our daughter, Niqitia, age 10 suffers from Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Mood Disorder and Mixed Developmental Delay with Speech Impairment. Niqitia is currently taking the following medications: Ability 15 mg, Adderall XR 30 mg, Amphetamine Salt Combo 20 mg twice a day, Amphetamine salt combo 10 mg noon (Generic for Adderall), Risperdal 2 mg and Clonidine 1 mg two at bed time. She receives medication services and counseling at Streamwood Behavioral Health Facility (See Exhibits 3 and 4and).
Our daughter, Rebecca, age 8 suffers from Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, Bipolar disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. She is currently taking the following medications: Adderall XR 30 mg, Amphetamine Salt Combo 20 mg twice a day, Amphetamine salt combo 10 mg noon (Generic for Adderall), Risperdal 1mg morning ½ at non and 2 at night and Clonidine 1 mg two at bed for sleep. She also receives medication and counseling at Streamwood Behavioral Health Facility (See Exhibits 3 and 5and) Rebecca also has a borderline cardiac condition called Prolonged QT Syndrome or Long Qt Syndrome (See Exhibit __and__) Rebecca also suffers from severe Asthma and Allergies. (See Exhibit__) Rebecca is also taking the following medications for Flovent Inhaler for constant cough from asthma, and allergies, Nasacort, Loratadine , Ventolin Inhaler, Albuterol Solutions for her breathing treatment machine, and Singular 5mg. (See Exhibit __ and __)
Our son, Brandon, age 6 suffers from Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder mixed with Psychotic Features and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. He is currently taking the following medications: Adderall 20 mg in morning, Amphetamine Salt Combo 10 mg 1 in morning and at noon, Strattera 18 mg in morning, Risperdal 1 mg in morning and 1 at night and clonidine 1 mg 2 at bed for sleep. He also receives medication and counseling at Streamwood Behavioral Health Facility (See Exhibits 3 and 6 and 7 and). Our son has severe emotional and behavioral problems. He has auditory hallucinations (“Hears Voices”). He has tried to commit suicide, tried burning down our house due to these voices, and was hospitalized in 2006 for a month.
Our son, Adan, age 2 is currently receiving services through the Early Intervention Program for Developmental Delays. He currently receives Physical Therapy, Developmental Therapy, Speech Therapy and Social Work Services. All of the people delivering these services come to our house once a week for an hour to one and half hours. (See Exhibit 8) He is currently on a waiting list for diagnostic testing to see if his High tone is from a Slight Case of Cerebral Palsy and also is on a waiting list for Orthopedic Doctor for braces for his legs. Adan will be starting School in June, 2008 when transportation is available to help with his Developmental Delays. Adan also suffers from Asthma and Allergies and is taking Albuterol Solutions for his breathing treatment machine and Cetirizine for allergies. (See Exhibit___)
Medical Concerns - my mother
Oscar’s being detained in Mexico would also affect my mother, Rebecca Salazar, as she has Bipolar, Depression, Diabetes, Seizures, Fibormyalgia, Panic disorder and others. She counts on Oscar and me for a lot of help. (See Exhibit ____ and ____and ____ and _____ and ________).
Detainment would also affect my grandmother, Judy Miles, as she needs Oscar and I to help care for my mother and to help her. My grandma is getting older and cannot do all that is needed alone. We also help her around the house. Oscar is the only adult male left on that side of my family. (See Exhibit_____).
If my husband Oscar Garcia is not granted his Visa immediately I would be affected significantly. I would not be able to continue with my psychiatrist services to receive my medications and my therapy services because I do not have any one to watch our children I have no friends and the nearest family lives 2 ½ hours away in Dubuque, Iowa. Oscar is the one who takes care of our children so I can attend these services that I need to maintain a stable life for me, our marriage, our children and other family. This would have serious effects on our children. It would be detrimental to any progress they are making in therapy and school. This in turn would be harmful to me as I would have to handle all of the repercussions alone It is important that my husband return to United States As Soon As Possible to help in raising and caring for our four children.
Financial
The financial hardship to me if my husband, Oscar Garcia, was not granted visa immediately would be devastating. I do not work and have not worked since I was 17 years old due to my Bipolar II disorder ,borderline personality disorder as well as depression and severe anxiety . I stay home to care for our four children each of who have disabilities. (As Stated Above) For these reasons I need my husband to return to United States of America Immediately as I could not pay for our financial obligations alone.
The total of our financial obligations yearly is $ 58,000 a year. The total of our yearly obligations is broke down as follows: 1. Rent -$11,100.00 2. GMAC Car payment -$5,262.00 3.Sprint Bill/phone $3,194.00 4.GMAC car insurance is 6 months -$203.96 and 6 months $194.00 for 12 months = $2,384.00 5.Nicor/gas -$921.00 6. Com Ed/electric- $ 1075.00 7.Dish- $840.00 8.Comcast $720.00 9.Arc/garbage pick up $40.00 10.Village of Carpentersville/water bill $400.00 11.Washington Mutual Credit Card $780.00
Cost of Food for 52 weeks is $ 10,400.00. This bring our total living cost to $58,000 a year more or less. (See Exhibits____,_____,_____,_____,______,____).
The following payments are bound by signed legal agreements. We are currently renting a duplex which we have a lease agreement that we are legally bound (See Exhibit _______) I need the income he brings in so our children and I have a place to live. I also count on my husband to pay for food, bills and other household items. We currently have a car payment for $438.49 a month that is due on the 11th of each month. (See Exhibit: ________) This is a loan that we got from GMAC with the help of my Grandmother, Judith Miles, (See Exhibit: ________) because Oscar and I could not get a loan ourselves as Oscar does not have a social security number. The loan is our responsibility under the agreement with my grandmother. She agreed to cosign for me but we had to agree to make all payments on time and have them directly withdrawn from our bank account. (See Exhibit:________ ) If Oscar was not allowed to come back in a timely manner we would not be able to fulfill this agreement made with my grandmother. If the car were to be repossessed it would damage my grandmother’s and my credit. Without a car I would not be able to get my children to the therapy services and psychiatrist services they require would not be able to get two of my children to school and also would not be able to get to my therapy appointments and psychiatrist appointments. While some of the children and I receive Medicare it is not enough to cover our financial obligations.
Financially we could not live in Mexico due to the fact they have poor work wages and little opportunity for advancement as stated in the CIA WORLD FACT BOOK. (See Exhibit_____ page___.) My husband could not support six people on the low wages in Mexico.
In Mexico we would have to pay for private school as our children do not speak Spanish. (See Exhibit ______)As stated from solutionsabroud.com this is the only option for children whose mother language is not Spanish. The cost of tuition for 4 children in private schools would be ______ opposed to the zero tuition in United States. (See Exhibits___ and ____.). So that would mean that tuition, books, meals, uniforms, transportation, would come from what he would make and as well as the rent, food bills and other household costs. It would be impossible to survive. Tuition is very expensive .
Another financial responsibility in Mexico would be to pay for all of our medications for all of our medical problems. There are currently about 30 to 34 different prescriptions. (See exhibit _______ ) The cost with no insurance here in the United States comes to $ 4.200.00 US Dollars sometimes more. Even though medication is cheaper in Mexico it would still be an extreme amount of money to have to pay. These prescriptions now are covered by Medicaid due to the fact we all have medical conditions that require medication and are considered disabled in the U.S . We do not pay for any medication unless there is a co-pay of $3.00 (dollars).
In Mexico Medicare will not for pay our prescriptions. (See Exhibit______ and Exhibit______) as stated on TravelState.Gov website and SocialSecurityAdminastration.Gov. Website. My husband would have to pay the cost out-of-pocket. Oscar could not pay for these prescriptions, School tuition, rent and food on the low wages of Mexico. We need these medications for maintenance of our mental health conditions so there is no choice of stopping them as it would be detrimental to our health and progression. Personal prescription information with cost if not paid by Medicaid is highlighted for all medications (See exhibit____)
The cost of schooling in Mexico would not be possible to afford on the low wages of Mexico. The cost are as follows
1. One time enrollment fee for 4 kids is $15,600.00 U.S. dollars
2. Registration fee 2 times a year-Total for 4 $8,878 .00 U.S. dollars
3. Annual activity fee for 4 children $460.00 U.S. dollars
4. Mandatory bus service for 4 children is $ 475.00 per month in U.S dollars
5. Tuition fee for 4 children is $ 8,376.00 per month
Cost for academic success (Special Education) is as follows 1 hour of service $464.00 U.S dollars, 2 hours of service $ 923.00 U.S. dollars , 3 hours of service $1,340.00 U.S. dollars (See Exhibit_______) this would be time 3 for me.
So with out special education services the total yearly cost would be $ 131,150.00 U.S Dollars
In the USA my husband has opportunities for advancement due to the fact he has been at his current job for almost seven years in September of 2008. (See Exhibit ________) Letter from husband’s employer He also speaks English and Spanish which is an advantage in the United State.
It is in my opinion that for these financial responsibilities listed above, That we share , My husband Oscar Garcia be Granted a Visa , because with out my husband here helping maintain these obligations and life for our family it would be extremely hard for me.
Education
Education is a huge issue for me due to the fact my children do not speak Spanish and I have 2 children with learning disabilities and 3 children with behavioral problems. Due to these issues they receive Special Education Services (See Exhibit___ for Niqitia and___ for Rebecca and ____ for Brandon.
Public schools in Mexico only teach in Spanish and many have poor quality of education. My children would not receive the special educations services needed for progress in their future education and it would not be at the same standards of U.S. Education. (See exhibit___) In fact as stated on Solutionsabroud.com the only option for a child whose mother language is not Spanish, is to attend a private school for the best in terms of bilingual education. They also stated that there are only five or six schools in the 3 largest cities of Mexico. The article also stated that there are only 2 schools that offer education almost completely in English are the American School and Green Gates.
Solutionsabroad.com also states to be wary of bus transportation, especially in Mexico City. It also states that you have to get an official apostle from the relevant public office before children move to Mexico, to certify that they can continue to study at an equivalent school and grade level in Mexico. I questions if our children would meet these requirements. Also stated was that we have to pay monthly tuition, enrollment fee , transportation and text books and clothes (all schools require uniforms), (See Exhibit___). We could not afford tuition for 4 children and apart from this it states on one of the school websites you have to pay an extra fee to receive special education services. The fees are as follows
1. One time enrollment fee for 4 kids is $15,600.00 U.S. dollars
2. Registration fee 2 times a year-Total for 4 $8,878 .00 U.S. dollars
3. Annual activity fee for 4 children $460.00 U.S. dollars
4. Mandatory bus service for 4 children is $ 475.00 per month in U.S dollars
5. Tuition fee for 4 children is $ 8,376.00 per month
Cost for academic success (Special Education) is as follows 1 hour of service $464.00 U.S dollars, 2 hours of service $ 923.00 U.S. dollars , 3 hours of service $1,340.00 U.S. dollars (See Exhibit_______) this would be time 3 for me.
So with out special education services the total yearly cost would be $ 131,150.00 U.S Dollars
In the United States our children receive more than 3 hours of special education each. I have one who spends her entire day in special education, that’s about 7 hours. For the facts stated above it is in our children’s best interest to continue their education in the United States where they do not have to adjust to a different language or be put farther back if they do not test at their current grade level in Mexico. It is pertinent to keep their schooling consistent so they can make progress and not fall behind due to the fact they have learning disabilities and mental health issues.
It is important that my husband Oscar be granted a visa immediately to return to U.S.A to be with our children and me. If not I am concerned to the effect it will have on our children’s education as they may become depressed from missing their father as I will also be.
Family Ties to the United States:
See Exhibits____, ________, _______, ______) Letters from Jessica’s family in support of waiver.
I would like to start by saying the my whole family lives in the United States about 2 1/2 hours to 6 hours away at the most. My children and family are the center of our lives. My husband works 6 days a week and often 10-12 hours a day so his family is all that he has time for. My whole family is a very close knit family. This is especially true on my mother’s side as it is only my grandmother, my mother, my family, my two younger sisters and their children. My husband and I and our children spend at least two weekends out of every month with my mother and grandmother helping them with things around the house and getting the things done that they can’t manage, as well as just spending time with them. On the other weekends we usually have my dad’s family at our house or we go to theirs. We are very family orientated. We always have some reason to be together even when there is not a real reason except that we enjoy family. We are always going to the park, cooking out, going to the zoo, museum, plays, live performances on ice and puppet shows. Whatever it is - just being together and being with family is important to us. These activities show our children good family values. If I were forced to move to Mexico to be with my husband I would because I could not live with out him. But if my children and I had to move to Mexico I probably would go into a severe depression because I would never get to see my family. They could not afford to travel to Mexico. Many have children and grandchildren they are supporting, and several have fixed incomes. The cost of their travel would be too high and out of the question. My mother is on a fixed income because she is disabled, (See Exhibit___ ) disability letter S.S.A). We would never see each other and this would devastate me. I live 2 1/2 hours away and see her every other weekend almost and still have to talk to her 3-4 times a day, sometimes more. My mother and I have an incredible bond. I am her biggest supporter and she can confide in me about anything. If I was to live in Mexico she could not call me nor could I call her because phone lines can be poor even hard to get to and cost a lot of money. Due to her fixed income this would be impossible. It would be very difficult for me to be in Mexico as it is way too far from my family the only family I have. Apart from this my children love going to see my grandmother and my mother. They spend most of the summer doing activities at their homes as activities are cheaper there. They take part in swimming, baseball, basketball, soccer, t-ball, and activities at the library, bible camp at 2 different times during the summer. Moving to Mexico would take these wonderful opportunities from them that they look forward to and enjoy so much. Due to my children’s mental health this would cause more stress to them. A move to Mexico would not only affect my life but would affect the life of my mother and grandmother as it helps them having my children around. It keeps my mom a little saner because she has something to look forward and it keeps my grandma busy so she just doesn't sit around and get depressed. (See Exhibit _____ ) I personally feel my children helped cope with the death of my grandpa by going there and showing mom and grandma that they needed to be strong for the children. I think you could ask any one who knows my grandmother and mother what my children mean to them and they would tell you the world. They talk about my children my husband and me all of the time. I constantly hear from my grandmother and mother’s friends how lucky they are to have Oscar and me and our children and how much we are appreciated by them.
Also I have my dad’s family. We are also very family-orientated and close. We spend as much time as possible with them. We usually spend the 4th of July with them at my dad’s. This is when my whole family from my dad’s side of the family comes and spends the whole weekend together. We cook out every day, play in my dad’s giant pool, go to the fireworks and play games in the yard. It's these family bonds and spending time that keep our family so close.
If I were to have to move to Mexico with my children so we could be with my husband I would in a heart beat but it would affect my life extremely because we would have none of this in Mexico. My children would forget who my family was here in the United States and it would destroy our family bond. It would destroy me as my kids and husband are my world and I could not choose between them. We have to stay together as a whole family – mother, father and children in the U.S.A.
If my husband Oscar is not granted a visa immediately this will affect all of my family and friends as they all love him and support him.
Please (See Exhibits ____, _____, _____, ______, ________, _______, _______).
Special Factors and Concerns
For the following facts it is important that my husband be granted a visa to return to United States to be with me and our children as I could not put the lives of my children and me and my husband in jeopardy by moving and living in Mexico.
Fact # 1. There has been a huge increase in violence and drug trafficking and murder in Mexico. (See Exhibit ____ )
Fact # 2. There is a huge rise in kidnappings; both to Mexicans and foreigners, and children are the most targeted group. There is a lack of quality police so there is no sign of decline. Drugs and the increase in violence are huge factors in kidnappings. Also stated that Mexico has a public safety problem growing at an alarming rate. (See Exhibit ____ )
Fact # 3. Adjusting to Mexico would be hard for me and the children as we would not know where anything is, have no family, the language barrier would make it hard for my children to make friends. We would constantly be missing our family in U.S. Their complete family structure would be broken and the consistency that they are used to would be lost.
Fact # 4. As stated on the travel state.gov website concerning behavior modification facilities , It states that a number of facilities have opened in Mexico, but the standards applied by the Government of Mexico and Local Government where they exist may not meet the standards for the same type of facilities in the United States. The website also stated that since 2004 Mexican officials closed six of these behavior modification facilities due to health code and other violations. This took place on short notice and caused serious concern to U.S. citizens and their families. (See Exhibit ____) Due to this fact alone I could not possibly move to Mexico with my children because 3 of them receive services from this type of facility. This would be harmful to them and their well being if this would occur. I would worry constantly about something like this happening.
Fact # 5. As stated on the SSA.gov website and travel state.gov website the social security Medicaid program does not provide coverage for hospitals or medical cost outside United State. Due to the fact that my children and I are provided coverage under this program because we are disabled it is pertinent we stay in the United States to receive our care. (See exhibit ____and__________.)
Fact # 6. Also stated on the travel state.gov website is that U.S law enforcement believes that as much as 25% of medications available in Mexico are counterfeit and substandard. Such counterfeit medication may be difficult to distinguish from the real medications and could pose serious health risk to consumers. (See exhibit___) I could not risk the health or lives of my children as we receive between 30-34 prescriptions a month (See exhibit____) In the U.S. we receive our medication from reputable pharmacies Walgreen’s and CVS. (See Exhibit___).
If my husband is not granted a visa to return to the U.S.A this will effect my life very severely and significantly . I need him for all aspects of my life.
Conclusion
My husband and I have been together almost 11 years. We have never been apart from each other like we will be while he is in Mexico. We have four beautiful children who look up to their father, and who really need him here in the U.S. for support and structure and for their mental, emotional, and physical well being . They are already saying that they don’t want him to go to Mexico. I need my husband here with me in the United States due to my mental and physical health .He is my rock, my only immediate support in our area. The whole time he is in Mexico will be very hard and depressing to me as I love him so much. I count on Oscar for so many things, especially just getting through the day. I need my husband to return immediately to U.S.A as I need his help in raising our four children. I need him for mental and emotional support for me and our kids as well as the structure and consistency that we all need for our well being. Oscar is also needed here in the United States to assist in our financial obligations. We are trying to support our family in every way possible.
I would like to thank you for reading my letter! When making your decision on the future of my family; please take into consideration all the facts listed above. Consider that if my husband were not granted his visa immediately it would be extremely hard for me to raise our four children alone due to my mental condition and theirs as well as the lack of financial support Please take into consideration the letters from our family and friends in support of my husband’s Oscar Garcia’s waiver. I thank you and I will await your decision.
I have also included these extra exhibits for referencing the following diagnoses in packet 2
Exhibit ( 1 ) Bipolar Disorder
Exhibit ( 2 ) Borderline Personality Disorders
Exhibit (3 ) Obesity
Exhibit (4 ) (ADHD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Exhibit (5 ) Fibormyalgia
Exhibit (6 ) Oppositional defiant Disorder
Exhibit (7 ) Diabetes
Exhibit (8 ) Panic Disorder
Exhibit ( 9 ) Developmental Delays