Following a wave of public support and legal intervention, a mother and her 4-year-old daughter—who suffers from a life-threatening medical condition—have been granted a one-year extension of their humanitarian parole, allowing them to remain in the U.S., their lawyers announced Tuesday.
The family, who entered the U.S. legally in July 2023 through the CBP One app, had been facing imminent deportation after receiving a sudden notice from the Department of Homeland Security in April stating their parole and work authorization were terminated. The case drew national attention after a public plea and press conference last week revealed the potentially fatal consequences of deporting the young child, who depends on specialized care unavailable outside the U.S.
A Family at Risk: Medical and Legal Turmoil Threatens a Child’s Life
- Medical Condition: The child, identified as S.G.V., suffers from short bowel syndrome, a rare and severe condition that hinders nutrient absorption and requires daily nutrition support through a portable medical backpack.
- Legal Disruption: In April, DHS revoked the family’s parole without warning, stating they must leave the country or face removal.
- Immediate Impact: The family feared deportation would cut off the child’s access to lifesaving medical care, which is not available in Mexico.
- Weather and Conditions: No external environmental factors were reported in this case, but emotional stress and community concern were high.
What Was Found?
- Termination Letter from DHS: The notice clearly stated the family’s legal status had been revoked and warned of impending deportation.
- Medical Evidence: Legal counsel from Public Counsel confirmed that S.G.V.’s life relies on daily treatment only available in specialized U.S. medical facilities.
- Parole Update: On Tuesday, the family received notice of a one-year humanitarian parole approval, giving them temporary relief while longer-term legal options are pursued.
Expert Insights
“This isn’t just a legal issue—it’s a human rights matter,” said Sandra Park, an immigration attorney at Public Counsel. “Forcing a child with a complex medical condition to leave the country would amount to a death sentence.”
“Our health system must not be used as a tool of exclusion,” added Dr. Emily Rojas, a pediatrician who advocates for medical protections in immigration policy. “This girl needs care—not a court date.”
Safety Measures and Monitoring
- Resident Advisory: While no physical danger to the community exists, residents are encouraged to stay informed about local humanitarian cases and pending deportations that could impact vulnerable families.
- Legal Monitoring: Public Counsel has confirmed they will continue to monitor DHS actions and are preparing further legal filings if needed.
- Public Engagement: Advocacy groups are urging the public to support reform and sign petitions calling for protection of medically vulnerable immigrants.
What’s Next for Los Angeles?
- Legal Pathway Ahead: The family’s legal team is pursuing permanent relief options including special immigrant status and medical deferments.
- Policy Outlook: Immigration advocates are pushing for broader reforms to prevent automatic deportations in medical hardship cases.
- Public Awareness: The case has sparked renewed discussion about the role of humanitarian parole and how U.S. policies can better protect children with complex health needs.
