Hi, we’re Elsy and Hunter! This is the story of my wife Elsy.

I’m originally from Yucatan, Mexico, and I moved to the United States to learn English and explore new opportunities. A few months after arriving, I met my amazing husband Hunter, through a popular dating app here in Utah. We decided to try something new and went on our first group date with some friends. We spent the day outdoors, enjoying a beautiful park, playing football, talking, and just having fun. From that very first day, I felt a deep connection with him, we really clicked, and it felt like we were a perfect team.

After several dates and seeing Hunter’s incredible big heart, kindness, and his sense of humor, I fell completely in love. We realized we wanted to share our lives together and had the same goals and dreams. Hunter proposed to me at the Salt Flats in Utah, it was truly a dream come true. Our wedding on July 25th was the most beautiful day of my life. I could feel the love of everyone there, making me feel like part of a family, even though most of my family lives in Mexico and only my mom was able to attend. We were sealed in the Saratoga Temple, and it was a moment of joy and eternal commitment.

A few years ago, I lost my brother and my father, and being away from my family in Mexico has been very hard. Being here without them has made this journey challenging. Even so, with Hunter’s love and support, we are working hard to build our life together and move forward with hope.

Both Hunter and I are students, and Hunter works tirelessly on the days he doesn’t have classes to help support us. My only financial support comes from my mom, which isn’t enough to cover the high costs of the Green Card process. I also have a small business in Mexico, but due to the difference in economy, it barely contributes compared to the expenses here in the U.S. Even with all our effort, the fees remain a big challenge. Government filing fees alone add up quickly - $675 for Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), $1,440 for Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), $520 for Form I-765 (Employment Authorization), and $630 for Form I-131 (Advance Parole travel document). On top of that, there is the required medical exam and vaccinations ($300–$500), as well as photos, document translation, mailing, and other smaller costs ($100–$300). All together, this final step costs more than $3,300–$4,000.

As we step into a new year, we are filled with hope and faith for what’s ahead. Any contribution, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to stability, security, and building our future together. Even sharing our story means more than you know. Your kindness and support would truly be a New Year’s blessing for our little family.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being part of our journey and helping us take this important step forward.

With love,

Elsy & Hunter