My story began in 2001. I tried to come here twice after 2004, but I was deported. I returned in 2004 and stayed until 2019 when I was arrested. I thought about giving up many times; it’s not easy. I was almost 90 days in jail, and then Dr. Antonio visited me. He said, ‘You may have less than 1% chance to stay, but if you want, I can work on your case.’ My wife and brothers started gathering everything needed, and he helped me pay bail to get out.

Since then, I got to know his team, which strengthened me. It’s a long process, and without a competent office, I might have given up. Each court date brought anxiety, wondering if it would end. Even at the last hearing, when the judge said the court had granted it, I didn’t know whether to cry or laugh. It was so emotional. My wife and I have a dream of owning our home, traveling, and taking our son Mateus to Brazil. Even with just a 1% chance, as Dr. Antonio said, never give up.