After spending nearly a decade building a life in the United States, Louise now just has months to leave everything behind and start over in a new country.

If you know Louise Duffy in any capacity, you likely already know that she is facing an incredibly difficult transition.

When I met her a few years ago, the date that once felt so far away has now become very real. After spending the last 10 years fighting to build a life in the United States, she is now being faced with the reality that her visa will expire on August 1st — and she must prepare to relocate.

Louise first came to the U.S. in 2016 to play collegiate soccer at LSUS. After graduating, she continued to invest in her future by earning an MBA in Data Analytics and extending her stay through a STEM OPT visa. Since then, she has worked hard to establish a career, build lasting relationships, and pour herself into the community she loves.

But what truly sets Louise apart is her heart.

From the very beginning, she dreamed of opening a nonprofit sports complex in an underprivileged area so that children could receive quality training at no cost. That dream wasn’t just talk — she lived it. She has given countless free soccer lessons to kids who otherwise wouldn’t have had the opportunity. She never prioritized the paycheck. She prioritized the kids, their growth, and their families.

She has spent years applying for roles that could offer H-1B sponsorship, navigating a process that is both extremely competitive and financially complex for companies, often with no guarantee of approval even when a position is offered. Now, despite her determination and tireless efforts to secure long-term sponsorship opportunities, she has reached a point where relocating is her only option.

Louise is currently exploring the possibility of moving to Canada while continuing to apply for career opportunities. However, starting over in a new country comes with significant financial strain. Moving expenses, securing housing, job transition costs, visa fees, and the heartbreaking possibility of having to rehome her beloved dogs are all realities she is facing.

For me personally, Louise is my best friend in the world. Watching her prepare to leave the life she has built here — and knowing we may not have her nearby anymore — is heartbreaking in ways I can’t fully put into words.

Funds raised will go directly toward relocation expenses, visa and application fees, travel costs, temporary housing, and pet relocation or care.

Louise has spent years giving her time, energy, and heart to others. Now it’s our turn to support her during one of the most uncertain moments of her life.

If you are able to donate, share, or simply send encouragement, it will mean more than you know. Every contribution helps ease the burden of this transition and reminds her that she is not facing this alone.

Thank you for being part of Louise’s journey.