Hello friends, family, and community,

Writing this is incredibly difficult for me, but I’ve reached a moment where I truly need support.

If you’re reading this, it’s because at some point our lives have been connected, whether as friends, or through my work as a teacher with your children. Being part of this community has meant more to me than I can express.

Since August 2025, I have been living and working in Gurnee, Illinois, a place that has become my home. I have felt welcomed, supported, and inspired by the students, families, and colleagues around me.

Recently, I was informed of an unexpected expense of $2,950 that must be paid by May 20th. I have tried to communicate and find a solution with the company that brought me here, but unfortunately, they have not been willing to work with me. If I am unable to pay this amount, I will be required to return to my home country.

This would impact not only my career as a teacher, but also the future that my family and I are working so hard to create here.

My husband, Nelson, joined me in September, and we have been waiting for his work authorization since October. At this time, he is unable to work legally, and we are afraid to risk anything that could affect our immigration status. Because of this, I have been carrying all of our financial responsibilities on my own, and it has become overwhelming.

I have done everything I can to manage and stay strong, but I have reached a point where I cannot do this alone.

Despite these challenges, I remain deeply committed to my students and my work. Being nominated for Teacher of the Year within my first six months was an incredible honor, and it reflects how much I care about the community I serve.

I am trying to build a stable future here for my family, including my daughter, who is preparing to start college. The thought of having to leave and start over is heartbreaking.

Today, I am humbly asking for your support. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference and help me stay and continue building this life I have worked so hard for.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and for your kindness and support during this difficult moment.

With gratitude,

Anabel Oballe

Maestra Oballe