I came to the United States in 2018, already in my third trimester of pregnancy. The plan was only to visit for a short time and buy a few things for our baby. But the situation in Venezuela worsened quickly, and soon the embassies closed. Suddenly, we couldn’t return home. We had to ask for asylum, and it became one of the most vulnerable times of my life.
Although I had visited this country before as a tourist, being forced to stay was completely different. I couldn’t even say goodbye to my family, and that pain was deep. But I could see God’s hand through it all. My parents and in-laws still had valid visas, so they were able to visit and support us a few times.
Being far from our country helped my husband and me grow closer. We learned to rely on each other and to prepare for parenthood as a team. I remember going to the library to study about pregnancy in the middle of winter — a season that can easily make one feel nostalgic — yet I still felt God’s presence in every step.
Across the street from where we lived, there was a small church. There, I met wonderful people who offered genuine help. Through them, I found medical care, prenatal classes, and guidance about breastfeeding. It was a blessing that I will never forget.
Today, I can truly say that we made it through only because of God. If I hadn’t surrendered my life to Him, none of this would have been possible.
Kelly’s own story
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