Help Kelly, Omar, Pablo & Judith Start Their New Life in Mexico

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out to raise support for my sister Kelly, her husband Omar, and their two wonderful kids—Pablo and Judith—as they prepare for a life-changing move.

In just a few weeks, they will be relocating from Columbus, Ohio to Mérida, Mexico. It’s a bittersweet goodbye for those of us who love and cherish them here, but it’s also a courageous and hopeful leap into a new chapter for their family. I’m creating this fundraiser to help ease the financial burden of their move and to offer them a little extra peace of mind as they start anew.

Kelly and Omar have poured their hearts into their life in Columbus. Omar has spent years managing a restaurant, while Kelly has been teaching English to adult learners and developing curriculum to help others succeed. They’ve built deep roots in their church and community, made lifelong friendships, and raised their children in a supportive and loving environment.

So why the move?

This decision hasn’t come easily. But with the political climate growing increasingly hostile—especially toward immigrants—and after years of obstacles in Omar’s path to legal citizenship, they’ve decided it’s time to choose a future where every member of their family can be fully recognized and respected. Omar, who came to the U.S. as a child, has lived a life in limbo for far too long. Shifting immigration policies have kept him from becoming a citizen, despite his dedication, hard work, and the solid life he's built here.

This move is not a retreat—it’s a step forward. In Mexico, Omar will have full citizenship, and the entire family can live with the rights, dignity, and safety that every human being deserves. It’s a chance for stability, freedom, and a fresh beginning.

We’re incredibly proud of Kelly and Omar for making this brave choice. Starting over is never easy, especially with two kids in tow. That’s why I’m asking—if you’re able—to chip in whatever you can to help them cover the cost of relocating, securing housing, and getting settled as they transition to life in a new country.

Whether it's $5, $50 or more, every little bit helps. And if you can’t give financially, your prayers, well-wishes, and shares of this fundraiser are just as meaningful.

Thank you for standing with this beautiful family as they take this next step.

With gratitude,

Emily O'Connor

P.S. Please refrain from offering unsolicited advice or opinions on immigration. I understand it is a contentious and highly politicized issue, but this is not the place to hash it out. Please trust that Kelly and Omar have done their due diligence and pursued all available pathways to citizenship, despite the time, energy, costs, and disappointments involved. Thank you for keeping the messaging positive. :)