William spent years building small businesses and helping young employees build their own futures. When Hurricane Katrina struck, he also led five relief trips to Louisiana to assist with cleanup.

He always tried to help people the way others had helped him. That generosity ultimately cost him everything. When a trusted employee stole his equipment and clients and drained his business account, William lost the landscaping business he had built, his home, and the retirement he had worked decades to earn.

In his seventies and with nowhere else to turn, he moved to South America, hoping the lower cost of living would allow him to retire. He taught English part-time, lived simply, and tried to rebuild his life there. Instead, he became trapped in a bureaucratic nightmare. He applied for a Pensioner Visa, the only way to stay in Colombia legally and receive healthcare, but it was rejected without explanation.

When his temporary visa expired, a large immigration penalty followed, and repeated attempts to schedule a payment appointment failed. As the delays continued, the required U.S. documents expired, and the penalty nearly doubled.

Because of his immigration status, William cannot leave Colombia, even to visit family in the United States. He feels increasingly isolated and worried about what will happen if he cannot resolve this.

He also has a serious eye condition that threatens his vision. Without healthcare, each treatment costs $350, nearly four times the insured cost. The combined burden of penalties, legal fees, and medical bills has pushed him to the breaking point.

We are raising $5,500 to cover the visa penalty, legal help, and a few months of medical treatment. Your donation will help William regain stability, access healthcare, and take the first step toward reuniting with his family.

Any support you’re able to give will make a meaningful difference.