JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — When Juan and Madison Pestana went on their first date in 2023, Juan vowed to always keep a bouquet of fresh flowers on the kitchen table. For nearly two years, he did exactly that.
Their love story was a whirlwind: She was an introverted medical student from North Carolina, and he was a charismatic construction owner from Venezuela. But their fairy tale took a turn when immigration agents detained Juan just as Madison earned her medical degree.
Madison describes that fateful day as a nightmare. Juan was apprehended, leaving Madison heartbroken and alone as she began her residency. Now she drives over 300 miles each weekend just to see him, facing strict visitation limits.
With Juan’s detention, the couple’s dreams hang in the balance. Madison laments the immigration system that failed them despite following the legal path for Juan’s green card application.
As they struggle to stay connected, their love grows even stronger. Amid the uncertainty, they cling to hope, longing to be reunited and continue building their life together, which includes Madison’s dedication to her medical career and planning a future with her husband.
