A Caregiver's Deportation Threatens a Deep Friendship

Alfredo Orellana, 31, and Luke Ferris, 28, shared a unique bond. Their relationship extended beyond the typical caregiver-client dynamic. They were friends who enjoyed activities together, including gym workouts, grabbing tacos, and playing video games. They even shared casual gestures like elbow bumps.

According to Luke's mother, Lena, it was as if Luke had found a friend to spend time with. Their connection was a source of joy and companionship.

However, after four years, the friendship was abruptly disrupted. Alfredo, known as Alex, was suddenly absent, detained in an immigration center far from their home.

A permanent U.S. resident, Alex now faces the possibility of deportation. The reason cited is an incident from eight years prior, when he attempted to defraud a store of $200. His wife explained that he was battling substance abuse at the time.