It's Never Too Late

Recently, we shared the story of Ms. Oliva Rodriguez (name has been changed). At the time the story was published, Ms. Rodriguez was the IRC’s first client to receive an N-648 (Medical Exemption) approval for her Naturalization case. It was a delight for the IRC staff to find that Ms. Rodriguez passed her Naturalization interview and received correspondence to attend an upcoming Oath Ceremony. Due to her medical health complications, Ms. Rodriguez’s health deteriorated to the point where she was mostly bed-bound and was unable to go to her scheduled Oath Ceremony. Our staff were able to get in contact with USCIS and ask for Ms. Rodriguez to be provided accommodations so that she could receive her Oath Ceremony at home (another first for the IRC!).

On Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 10:30am I had the privilege to go to Ms. Rodriguez’s home and explain to her the proceedings for her Oath Ceremony. She was so happy! She couldn’t believe that the day had come for her to become a U.S. Citizen. At 11:00am, I was able to witness Ms. Rodriguez' Oath Ceremony in front of two USCIS officers, who provided her a Naturalization certificate on the spot. Tears of joy shed down Ms. Rodriguez’s face and in the face of the few family members present as her wish was finally fulfilled. Witnessing Ms. Rodriguez receive the help that she needed from our office and receive her citizenship made all the hours of preparation for her case worthwhile.

As I was giving my final goodbyes, Ms. Rodriguez said “bless you!” over and over again with struggling breath and a quaky voice said, “Bless you! Bless you and all of the people who made this dream possible.” With that, dear reader and supporter of the IRC, I pass on to you her blessings.

Rosa Cándida Ramírez (ella/she/her)
DOJ Accredited Representative