A Venezuelan Migrant Family's Unfathomable Struggle in Chicago

A Harrowing Journey to Chicago

Genesis Chacon, a 22-year-old Venezuelan mother, embarked on a perilous journey to Chicago while heavily pregnant, carrying her husband and toddler. Her husband, Marilieser Gil-Blanco, 23, became paralyzed from the chest down due to a rare condition developed during their journey. Now, Chacon is caring for him and their children, despite having a C-section just four weeks ago. Their immigration papers and their newborn daughter’s birth certificate were disposed of by city officials, adding to the family's plight.

Desperate Circumstances

The family has been struggling to survive with no access to essential medical care and resources. Gil-Blanco urgently requires expensive physical therapy sessions, which they cannot afford due to lack of insurance. His condition deteriorates, evident in the development of severe bedsores and weight loss. Meanwhile, Chacon, still recovering from a recent C-section, has taken on the immense responsibility of caring for her husband, managing his medical needs, and tending to their newborn and 4-year-old daughter.

The Loss of Vital Documents

The disposal of their immigration papers and their newborn daughter’s birth certificate has added a new layer of hardship. Despite the shelter's claims of conducting a thorough search, the vital documents were discarded, leaving the family anxious about their future. City officials have pledged to work with the family to obtain the discarded paperwork, but uncertainty looms over their ability to recover the lost documents.

Struggles in Resettlement

While the city resettled the family in a second-floor apartment, it was not wheelchair accessible, forcing Chacon to carry her husband's wheelchair up and down the stairs, exacerbating her physical strain. Similarly, they endured a month without heat and electricity, adding to their challenges. Volunteers and community organizations are striving to secure accessible housing and critical financial support for the family.

A Community's Compassionate Efforts

The Faith Community Initiative, the Sanctuary Working Group, and volunteers have united to aid the family, establishing a GoFundMe campaign to alleviate their financial burden. Their efforts aim to secure six months of rent and identify affordable housing options for the family. Despite their arduous circumstances, Chacon remains apprehensive about affording their medical needs without the ability to work.

A Family's Unwavering Resilience

Despite the adversity, Chacon and Gil-Blanco draw strength from their daughters and persevere in the face of unimaginable challenges. Their unwavering determination and the community's compassionate support offer a glimmer of hope in their profound struggle.

Conclusion

As the family navigates their uncertain future, their story sheds light on the plight of migrants facing profound hardships and the collective efforts of communities to provide assistance and hope in times of immense need.