My name is Elizete, and my husband and I are trying to get back on our feet after an incredibly difficult and traumatic experience in ICE detention. I am diabetic, and while I was detained by ICE for 80 days two years ago, I was routinely denied medical care, resulting in losing my vision. I have had several surgeries since and, after a long struggle have been able to recover about 15% of my vision. I am still in treatment, and trying to adapt to my new reality with limited vision.

Right now, I am struggling to find formal work due to my partial blindness. Back in Brazil, my husband I were successful bakers, and we are trying to support ourselves by selling Brazilian sweets and savory pastries here in Boston and Somerville. However, right now the room we are renting has a shared kitchen and is not suitable for cooking.

We are hoping to move to an apartment where we have a real kitchen that would allow us to pursue our passion and support ourselves by making delicious Brazilian food for our neighbors. I also need financial support for my medical bills and expenses that continue to grow. We need support from our neighbors to realize our full potential.

Despite everything I suffered in ICE detention and the new challenges I'm facing due to my disability, I can't wait to get back to work and support myself and my community. Even if I can't see with my eyes, I can still see all of your support with my heart. I would be incredibly grateful for your support and hope you can try my delicious brigadeiros and bolos soon!

Meu nome é Elizete e estou passando por um momento de grandes desafios. Perdi a visão enquanto estava em um centro de detenção de imigração, devido à minha diabetes e à demora no socorro médico. Desde então, enfrentei várias cirurgias e, com muita luta, consegui recuperar cerca de 15% da visão. Ainda estou em tratamento e sigo buscando maneiras de me adaptar a essa nova realidade.

Atualmente, moro de aluguel em um quarto e, por conta da perda da visão, não consigo encontrar trabalho formal. Apesar das dificuldades, estou me capacitando para fazer bolos e doces, buscando uma nova fonte de renda e autonomia. No entanto, como a cozinha da casa é compartilhada entre os moradores, não consigo utilizá-la para trabalhar e produzir meus produtos.

Nem todo mundo enxerga com os olhos e sim com o coração. Muito obrigada por ler minha história e considerar me apoiar.