I created this campaign for my two dear friends, Eduardo and Maria "Angie" Ruiz, whom I have known for over 25 years, the funds will be used for legal fees as well as helping Eduardo find a place to live in Mexico where he was deported, below is a plea from my dear friend:

I am a disabled wife and mother writing with a humble, prayerful heart during one of the most difficult seasons our family has ever faced.

My husband, Eduardo “Eddie,” is a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. He is a good man in every sense of the word, hard working, responsible, faithful, and deeply committed to his family. For many years, Eddie has lived and worked in the United States with a valid work permit and has faithfully attended his required immigration check ins for the past 13 years. He has always followed the rules, lived honorably, and provided for our family with love and sacrifice.

During one of these routine check ins, Eddie was unexpectedly taken into immigration custody. In an instant, our family was separated without warning.

Eddie is currently being held at the Alligator Alcatraz detention facility. While detained, his conditions and access to consistent medical care have been deeply concerning, especially given that Eddie is diabetic. Managing his health has been extremely difficult, with limited access to appropriate meals, inconsistent medication, and very restricted time outside or for basic daily needs. As his wife, it is heartbreaking to know that his health is at risk while he remains detained.

Eddie’s absence has been devastating for our children and grandchildren, who rely on him not only for support, but for love, guidance, and stability. He is an active, present father and grandfather, and his sudden absence has left a profound emotional void in their lives.

Eddie is Cuban, and returning to is not an option. If deported, he faces the possibility of being sent to a third country where he has no family, no support system, and no way to work or survive. The thought of him being permanently separated from his family and sent somewhere unfamiliar is deeply frightening.

Because of my disability, Eddie has always been my primary support and caregiver. His detention has placed immense emotional and physical strain on our family, and we are doing everything we can to stay strong and hopeful.

We are asking for support to help us retain an experienced immigration attorney and cover the legal costs necessary to fight for Eddie’s release, protect his health, and bring him home where he belongs.

This is not just a legal battle. It is about keeping a family together. It is about a husband who belongs with his wife, a father who belongs with his children, and a grandfather whose presence is irreplaceable. We are holding tightly to our faith and trusting that God will make a way.

We are not asking for pity. We are asking for compassion, understanding, and support during a time we never expected to face. Any contribution, no matter the amount, brings us one step closer to reuniting our family and bringing Eddie home.

If you are unable to give, your prayers and sharing of this campaign mean more than words can express.

From our hearts, thank you for reading our story, for standing with us, and for helping us fight to bring our husband, father, and grandfather home

With gratitude, Angie