Jessamine Torr came to the United States from South Africa in February 2020 to marry whom she thought was the man of her dreams. Jessamine and Jason met on a LDS faith dating site, had a long-distance courtship, and after several in-person visits and meeting each other’s families, decided to marry. Jessamine anticipated a bright future with Jason in his hometown in North Carolina. Sadly, Jason betrayed Jessamine, and became abusive within the first month of their marriage. In September 2020, Jessamine fled North Carolina with only $40 to her name, and relocated to Utah where she has had to rely on the charity of her friends to survive. 

At the time of her departure, Jessamine had no Social Security Number or Employment Authorization- this meant it was incredibly difficult for her to provide for her most basic needs. In addition to this, she suffered some serious injuries to her neck as a result of the abuse she experienced at the hands of her husband. The injuries have caused her to suffer debilitating migraines and severe pain, making it hard for her to complete simple tasks.

Despite agreeing to allow Jessamine to file for divorce from Utah, at her own cost AND on the premise she asked for no financial assistance from him, Jason went behind her back and annulled their marriage. This had serious consequences for Jessamine: since she came into the US on a marriage-based visa, the annulment rendered her guilty of marriage fraud, despite the fact she played no part in the acquiring of it. Jason also informed Jessamine that he had reported her to immigration for marriage fraud.

As a law abiding person, this terrified Jessamine. She did a lot of research and was advised that she would be unable to legitimize her immigration status unless she got the annulment reversed. After a long, drawn out battle, Jessamine was finally able to prove that Jason committed perjury in his efforts to obtain the annulment, as well as prove that the grounds for the annulment were fraudulent. The annulment was reversed and in January 2025 the divorce from Jason was finally granted. This involved great expense, and took over 4 years to achieve.

Jessamine is now able to proceed with acquiring a legitimate immigration status, as well as her employment authorization, independent of her abuser. However, this again comes at great financial costs and she needs to act quickly to get back on her feet.

Her primary expenses are:

$2,000 lawyer fees

$1,500 psychological evaluation (part of immigration processes)*

$1,000 medical examination (part of immigration processes)*

$500 medical expenses (to treat injuries from abuse)

*these must be performed by specialists selected and approved by immigration

Jessamine is a dear friend whom I came to know and love when I lived in South Africa. I’ve been delighted that we’ve been able to continue our friendship together in Utah, although I’m very saddened by the circumstances.

This humble ask isn’t just about raising money, it’s about offering hope, love, and community for one who has seen so little of it since moving to our great country. Every dollar donated adds a rung in her ladder to overcome what seems like a most insurmountable mountain. Jessamine is aware that I am sharing her story. She is deeply touched and greatly appreciative to all who willingly offer their kind assistance, whatever it may be.

I add my own appreciation for your taking the time to learn of Jessamine’s plight, and to offer your support in whatever ways your heart leads you - whether by donation, prayer, sharing her story with others, or sending a positive comment to lift her spirits - it is all received with heartfelt gratitude. Thank you!