Yesterday we learned that our beautiful ray of light, Mayela Leyva and her family had their lives drastically changed when her stepfather was detained and deported. Her father was to be taken to Tijuana and dumped on the street like trash. Fortunately, she has family down there who were able to help and ensure he was not left on the street but donations are needed for attorney fees. If Mayela or Fernando have ever positively impacted your life, please consider a donation, no matter how small. Working together we can fight this gross display of inhumanity. Here is the story in her own words:

Yesterday, our lives changed in the blink of an eye. My amazing stepdad—a loving husband, a bonus father, and a truly kind human—was detained by ICE in Camarillo, CA and deported. Just like that, my mom and stepdad were taken away from our everyday lives, leaving a void that words can’t fill. Our hearts ache, not just for our family, but for every family torn apart by immigration policies, detention centers, and deportation. The pain of separation is unbearable. No one should have to wake up wondering when they will see their loved ones again, yet this is the harsh reality for so many. Still, we are grateful—grateful for life, for breath, and for the love that binds us, even across miles. But life will never be the same. To everyone enduring this heartbreak, you are not alone. Protect your loved ones. Hold them close. Cherish every moment. And no matter how dark the days may feel, never lose hope and faith. Love transcends borders, and we will continue to fight for families to stay together. To those who have never experienced it, please open your hearts to the pain of separated families. This is real. This is happening. And we must not turn a blind eye.