My name is Juan Castaneda, and I’m organizing a marathon fundraiser for my father, Emilio. On October 5th, 2025, I will be running a marathon in his honor.

My dad has been detained by ICE for the past month and is currently being held at a detention center. He has a pending visa case. Although it is still not for certain, his legal team has advised him to request voluntary departure so he can continue his immigration process from Mexico. He has an upcoming court on October 2nd.

This is an incredibly difficult moment for our family. After more than 30 years of building a life here, my father will have to start over from scratch outside the country. While he continues his case and works toward returning to the U.S. one day, we want to make sure he has the support he needs to get back on his feet.

We are raising funds to help cover:

• Legal expenses

• Transportation costs

• Basic living and logistical needs as he restarts his life abroad

Running has always been a source of strength and resilience for me, and I want to dedicate this marathon to my father — as a symbol of the endurance, faith, and hope our family is holding onto during this time.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward helping my dad during this transition. Even if you cannot give, we would be so grateful if you could share this campaign with others who may want to support.

Thank you for standing with us, for lifting up my dad Emilio, and for helping us keep hope alive for the day we can reunite as a family here in the United States.

— Juan Castaneda