Ares Mena

"Migrating is the hardest decision one can ever make: leaving behind everything you love in hopes of a better future. When I left for the United States, my heart broke into a thousand pieces because I had to leave ARES behind.It wasn’t a lack of love; it was a matter of survival. I left him in the care of kind hands, but every video call and every photo I receive reminds me that he is still waiting for me at the door, unable to understand why his family hasn't returned.He is more than just a pet; he is the one who stood by me during my darkest days before I left. I promised him I would come back for him—that this sacrifice was also about building a better life for him. Today, after much hard work, I finally have the stability to welcome him here, but the costs of international travel, permits, and fees are a barrier I cannot overcome alone.Every dollar brings us closer to the hug I’ve been dreaming of for months (or years). Help me keep the promise I whispered in his ear before leaving: 'Wait for me, we will be together again.'"