MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP

Subject: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 11:57 AM

Hi my name is Cindy and I desperately need help..the guys at tweeds board suggested I come over here and post my plea..This is legit it isn't a scam..if you go to www.helpjessica.com it will explain everything and tell you what you could do to help if you want to..thanks for your time
cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 12:01 PM

Have you thought of moving all of you to Canada?

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 12:05 PM

yes we have tried canada and also new zealand but because of jess's problems no other country will take her *sigh*

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: wysiwyg
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 12:06 PM

Welcome to Mudcat, Cindy.

Folks, briefly-- Cindy's need is for people to write to officials (or your local congressional representative) to get Cindy's husband Russell into the US from Oz, because his separation from the family is deeply and adversely affecting their mentally ill/challenged daughter Jessica.

CLICK HERE for details.

Good luck, Cindy!

~Susan

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Metchosin
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 12:15 PM

sorry SRS, because of the pre-existing medical condition, under current immigration regulations, I believe it would be unlikely that they would be allowed in here.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 01:43 PM

Yeah, that's pretty typical. I used to work at Ellis Island as a historian--the medical checks could be rigorous if they thought you were hiding something.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 01:44 PM

Good luck, Cindy. Things like this are NOT fair, but with thanksgivings for it all working out for the highest good of all concerned, our good thoughts, etc. may help. I'll also see about sending some emails to the links you've put up.

kat

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 02:13 PM

Sometimes the doings of bureaucracy really make your skin crawl, and this is one of them. Except it's not really just the bureaucrats, it's the politicians who have the power to cut through that stufff, and don't.

And then they yammer on about "family values".

It's a hard thing in this case to know whether to depise the Australians bureaucrats and politicians more, or the Americans.

I would think the best chances are that the media in the States will recognise this for a powerful story, and that they can start a bandwagon that will shame some powerful politician who is running for office right now, so that they climb aboard.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Amos
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 02:26 PM

Look, it would be simple enough to smuggle the bloke in -- hitch a ride over on a yacht and bring him in on a dark beach somewhere nearby by dinghy. Since he is legitimately a family member he can move in, get a license and the next thing you know he's living life like a citizen!

A

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 02:29 PM

That wouldn't work - when you've a daughter with needs like that, and you have to organise the help, life gets too complicated to be hiding from the law.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Rasener
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:02 PM

Cindy
I am so sorry to hear about the hell that you are going through.

I have a 9 year old Autistic daugher who would be devastated if that happened to us.

You have got to keep on fighting and fighting until somebody puts this injustice right.

Won't Great Britain let you come here?

People who don't have special needs children don't always understand the heartache that we have to go through to help our children.

Keep strong. I wish I could help.

Les Worrall

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:07 PM

I see that one of the links on Cindy's website is to the Managing Editor of what I take to be the local newspaper, the Reading Eagle - here is the paper's online edition, with a number of addresses and such.

I don't think letters from over here in England would be much help, but maybe if people living nearer had a go, it might help give this story the legs it deserves, and get it some wider media attention at a time when politifians are feeling particularly vulnerable.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: open mike
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:13 PM

Worrell? Worrall? may be related...such a co-incidence.
Is there a chance that an embassy or consulate might help?
what other advocacy source could be approached?
Child welfare society or something?
Best wishes in your struggle..and I hope that you are able
to achieve your goals.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: GUEST,peedeecee
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:13 PM

I'm puzzled -- if Cindy is an American citizen, can she not sponsor her legal husband into the US? We do that in Canada.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:26 PM

And the other link Cindy guves is for Congressman Joe Pitts - here is his - "Constituent Service Page"

I see that he specifically says there that he wants to help people "having a problem with the Internal Revenue Service or the Immigration and Naturalization Service", so obviously he would welcome getting letters from people asking him what he can do to help Jessica and her family.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:42 PM

Can someone please turn this link blue?

talkshows.about.com/library/extras/blmailoprah.htm

Dear Cindy,

My heart broke when I read the story of your family and your daughter. Please consider what McG of H has suggested: You need press on this. Have you tried Oprah Winfrey? She is a great lady and this is 'right up her alley'.

(Also, I have fought for years to get the designation "mentally retarded" removed from every and any assessment document to do with one of my daughters. In every school for which I have taught, it was called "Special Education" when I arrived and "Special Needs Education" by the time I left. Get the 'retarded' re-labelled. Call it what it is--find another name for Jessica's condition.)

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:45 PM

brucie's link

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:46 PM

Thanks, McG of H.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:48 PM

No it wasn't - but here it is:
How To Contact Oprah Winfrey

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 03:49 PM

You are beautiful.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Maryrrf
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 04:28 PM

I find this appalling. From what I understand about US immigration, yes, she could sponsor him as her legal husband but in this case he has a black mark (overstayed his visa, I think, or something like that) and they are turning him down. And it's terrible that Australia won't let the mother and daughter join the husband. This is obviously a family and they should be together, whatever the case.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 04:48 PM

thank you all for all the suggestions...yesi have contacted the oprah show..the media the tv stations here and everyone i can think of with no luck..but maybe if others were to write it will make a differance..i think just one person doing this they don't pay attenation but with numbers they do...so please if you can find the time e-mail the links i have on the page weather or not you are in the states..it will make a differance in numbers...and no england or canada or new zealand will that jess...thank you all for all the responces ..a e-mail or two would be great also...

cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 04:54 PM

Wait two weeks, everything may change. (This is, after all, ENTIRELY about politics).

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 05:47 PM

Wait two weeks and the politicians are all back in their jobs again, one way and another, and they lose that sense of urgency that is associated with being up for election, and involves being worried about stories in the paper that might show them up as gutless and heartless.

Now is the time to push as hard as possible.

More details might be helpful in writing any letters. If Cindy doesn't want them on the open forum, sending them in a PM would be an option. (Just click on the PM next to the name of anyone you'd like to send one to.)

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Jack the Sailor
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 05:53 PM

Have you tried talking to an immigration lawyer? It seems to me that you have a case.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: GUEST,skipy
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 06:14 PM

There is no way I can help you with this but sincere "Good Luck" - fight on with all the might you can muster, I look forward to seeing a thread that says that you have achieved your goal.

Skipy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Sorcha
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 07:53 PM

I've sent e mails.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 08:50 PM

We need as many American Mudcatters as possible to send supportive e-mails. Please.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 08:53 PM

I am going to add my voice also. I know it may not mean much to an American politician coming from a Canadian, but at least the people we e-mail will know it's known about internationally. Any others gonna help?

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Sorcha
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 09:26 PM

I already have, Bruce.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Bobert
Date: 20 Oct 04 - 10:03 PM

The best people to contact are your *own* Representatives and Senators.

When I read this at Tweeds, I printed a copy and made more copies to send to Senator Byrd, Sen Reockerfeller and Reprresentatine Capito, all of Wes Ginny...

Again, please contact *your* reps...

Bobert

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: GUEST,Boab
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 05:15 AM

Mrs Worrel;
Yours is a heartrending story. We all feel pretty helpless against powerful cliques who make great play about asking "god" for guidance in their daily lives. Be certain in the knowledge that there are many, many thousands who are hoping for a happy ending for you and your family, and many more who would be likewise if they were to be informed. I'm sure I am not alone in using e-mail as you have asked in furtherance of your cause. May the God of Love comfort you and yours, and guide powerful forces on the right path.
Boab

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 05:43 AM

"When I read this at Tweeds"   What's "Tweeds"? More details than we've had here, such as names, are really needed to help in writing in support.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 06:40 AM

McGrath of H...I also have this posted at tweedsblues message board one of their members that is also a member here suggested I post here also said you guys were great...and they were right i have gotten more responce and help here then i ever expected....russell, jess and I thank you all so much..

cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Ellenpoly
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 06:44 AM

I've also sent an e-mail to Oprah. It's amazing that so many people now look to her to be a voice for the disenfranchised.

Best of luck.

..xx..e

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 07:23 AM

If you don't know who your reps. is or how to e-mail them thereis a link on Jess's page..that if you put in your zip code it will look it up for you...I didn't know who mine was and had to look it up..*S* and for those that are outside the US i suggest e-mailing my rep.Pitts
I have contacted Oprah 2 times myself..cool there is always strength in numbers...again thank you all so very much...
cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 08:13 AM

McGrath of H...here is more info..things i have done by myself..is this the kind of info you wanted

we hired a attorney here to write a appeal (even though we have a lawyer he can only do the legal stuff he can in no way try to put pressure on the government to do anything) since i have been back i have written endless letters and have made phone calls i have written to every senator and congressman that has either sponsored or co-sponsored any type of immagration bill in the bast 2 yrs. i have written to the president, vice president every presidental candiate, secretarty of state powell, to channel 10,15,69,15(these are the stations we get here) the governer , readding eagle news paper, federation for american immigration reform,lutheran immg. & refugee services, american civil liberties union,oprah winfrey show,montel williams show,maury show, INS(immigration & nationalation service) ombudsman khatri, att. general ashcroft, rev. jesse jackson, LIRS (this is suppose to be about childrens rights),ACLJ,ACLU..the only responces i have received beside there is nothing we can do it from cong. trent franks,senator arlen spector and congressmanjoe pitts and all they say is all we can do is to see where in line the paperwork is and how long it will be before a decission is made and they cann't even give me a answer on that..i talk to brian ant cong franks office and nicholas at pitts office but they are little to no help...since we have been back i have letters from drs. counslors, teachers, social workers stating that jess is in crisis..that her mind can not take nor understand what has happened..and if something isn't done she will crack and have to be put in a instituation..which will end up being perminitt that this is a medical emergency and that jess is in crisis..*crying* sorry i can not let this happen..in essentce the government is trying to make me choice between my husband who is the love of my life and my daughter who is my life...this goes beyond *hardship* that they say we have to prove this is *inhumane*
this is why i decieded to start posting on message boards..by myself i have gotten no where hoping there is strength in numbers...is our only hope.....cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 10:13 AM

More info...they have denied Russell's application once so we are appealing that decission right now our appeal is before the AAU(adminastrative(sorry my spelling sucks)appeals unit) there is no way to contact them directly that i have been able to find you have to go through a senator or congressperson and they can contact the AAU...sorry i cann't think of all the info at one time...my mind is rather scattered lately...
cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 01:14 PM

Just been over to have a look at tweedsblues (which I hadn't come across before - looks fun) - and here is a link to the thread there:
This one IS real and maybe some of guys in the States can help!

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: GUEST,US
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 03:29 PM

I sympathize with you but why is the government responsible for your problem?

The government can't do everything for everybody.

Ubcle Sam

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 04:05 PM

I will tell you and i do understand that they cann't do everything for everybody..but the fact is that the government has given people with disabilities certain rights...2 of them are that they have the right to live and be educated in the *least restrictive environment* i have medical reports and reports from teachers and social workers that agree that she is so traumatised by the seperation from her father that if it is not rectified soon she will have to be instutionalized and that WOULD NOT BE the *least restrictive envirorment* so by the government not allowing her father to join us here the government is ignoring her rights so there for it is the governments FAULT.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 04:11 PM

The humane US government is only doing its duty in splitting thid family up, by refusing permission for Jessica's father to join her and her mother Cindy, after the equally humane Austrralian government forced them to leave Australia because fourteen year old Jessica has a disability, and isn't an Australian citizen.

That really must make Uncle Sam proud to live in such a family-loving country.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: GUEST,US
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 04:13 PM

I don't want to add to your difficulties or make you feel bad but the visa thing was a violation and it seems to be the reason he is separated from you.

Is the government responsible for that?

Uncle Sam

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 04:17 PM

GUEST, US:

There is a child involved in the issue. You are a voice being so in tune with your perception of correctness that you have no humanity. This lady is not blaming government. She is asking for help for her child. Please, keep your arguments for another time. Let's work the problem and help the kid. Later, we can all help you blame the adults.

Bruce Murdoch

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: sagecw
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 04:42 PM

Russsell knows he messed up and would have no problem taking responsibility for his mess up but because of jess and what it is doing to her we are asking for the waiver that is available for such things...you are more then entitled to your opinion...

cindy

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 05:44 PM

Strikes me that even from the point of view of trying to save the US Government money, letting Jessica's father in makes a hell of a lot of sense.

If keeping this family divided means that Jessica isn't able to live an ordinary life as possible out in the community, that is going to cost a whole lot more money. I think most people would see that as the least important reason that would be a bad thing, but it's a pretty good knock down argument for anyone who sees monetary cost as the deciding factor.

I think those of us who have close family members with the kind of difficulties Jessica has can probably appreciate pretty clearly what a terrible thing has been done to her, and continues to be done to her, by the bureaucracies of the two countries involved. I hope that as many of us as possible will find a way to bring this to the attention of people who can undo the damage.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Peace
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 07:03 PM

Hear, hear.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 07:54 PM

It occurs to me, that with all this internecine squabbling over your election in the States that's been going on recently (and ongoing), this would be one thing where people with different political preferences could pull together, to try to get this family together again.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Deda
Date: 21 Oct 04 - 09:40 PM

I have sent an email to my Colorado rep in the US Senate, Mark Udall, asking that he lend you his voice and support. FYI.

Subject: RE: MY DAUGHTER NEEDS HELP
From: Ellenpoly
Date: 22 Oct 04 - 04:53 AM

Sadly, I do think it's likely that your problem is going to be lost in the shuffle with the politicians running in the coming elections.

If it's possible to wait until the smoke clears sometime after November 2nd (and it is going to be a very messy right after that day) it might be to your advantage.

Once we know who is going to be running the country, it might be easier to gain some attention for your situation.

I really do think that the chances are better for you if you can interest the media in any way possible. Like it or not, it's the media that now holds enormous power towards which people and what stories get attention.

The last thing I'd like to suggest is having to put your child in the spotlight at a time when she and you are already under so much pressure, but I do know how these things often work in the States, and if you can get a journalist interested in your story, you might be able to put some public weight behind your request for a visa waiver.

The one thing that Guest US said, which is true, is that the government has a lot on it's plate. You need them to start to have your story take up enough room on that plate for them to act.

..xx..e

(PS-Start small; if you have a local paper which will run an article, that can be your foothold towards getting wider attention. Even letters to the editor (and forgive me, but I'd advise you to have someone check your spelling so you can be as effective as possible) that you can get published, can then be forwared to other publications and TV and radio stations. It's about making your "cause" seem as legitimate as possible.)