MIGRATION AND ITS REALITIES -
There is an important reason why my Mom and I migrated to the US from another country.
I was born in Athens, Greece (Europe), and when I became three years old, I got diagnosed with autism, and I also had big problems with both my health and behavior.
The other problem was that I was born in a country that did not offer enough help, support, and the right amount of education.
My Mom was born in Puerto Rico (which is a part of America), and even though I was not born in the States, I gained my American citizenship from her. Finally, my Mom decided to take me and leave Europe and move to the USA, so that we could receive better help for my needs and health.
Even as we travelled, I had a very hard time handling my emotions, which led me to constantly cry, and have melt-downs the entire trip. Some people spoke very snobby and rude towards my Mom, questioning her about my behavior and asking her if she could keep me quiet.
When we arrived, I was comforted by my welcoming, kindhearted aunt (my Mom's little sister), even when my Mom still had pain in her heart, but her top priority is always and forever me...
Even though there was heartbreak, pain, oppression, judgement, xenophobia, unfair fear, sacrifices, horrible thoughts, and uneasy choices, I had to come here to the US for a better, healthier, safer life with promising opportunities!
And it's been intense, marvelous, challenging and oh so rewarding!
I miss my dad a lot. Too much. And I know we'll find the opportunity to keep strengthening our relationship as father/daughter...