Deportation from Florida to Cuba: Heidy Sánchez Faces Heartbreaking Separation from 17-Month-Old Daughter Kailyn. Heidy recently faced deportation from Florida to Cuba, despite her daughter and husband being U.S. citizens. Heidy’s story demonstrates the profound effects of Trump administration immigration laws and family division.
The American Dream Dismantled
Under the shadow of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which made asylum applicants wait across the border, Heidy’s trip to the United States started in 2019. Heidy claimed that fleeing Mexican cartel violence put her life in danger, which led to authorities allowing her to stay in the United States. She reunited with her partner after her release from immigration custody and underwent IVF techniques to fulfill her dream of becoming a mother.
For a while, life in Florida appeared promising. Heidy’s family prospered, she put a lot of effort into becoming a nursing assistant, and they celebrated life’s milestones together, including Christmas and trips to Sea World. However, Heidy’s future in the United States started to fall apart as the political landscape changed.
The Moment Her Dream Was Ripped Away
In late April, Heidy received a call from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), notifying her of an expedited appointment. When she arrived with her daughter and lawyer, the situation took a drastic turn. ICE agents told her that they would take her into custody and instructed her to hand her daughter over to relatives.
Despite pleading to stay with her daughter, authorities forcibly separated Heidy from Kailyn and flew her to Havana just days later.. Given that Kailyn had seizures and Heidy was nursing, her lawyers contended that the deportation may be detrimental to her daughter’s health. But the hearing request was made too late.
Life in Cuba: A Struggle to Reunite with Family
Back in Cuba, Heidy faces a stark reality.Her Havana house is in disarray, with little supplies and constant power interruptions.The difficulties she faces in Cuba make being away from her family even more emotionally taxing. She struggles to communicate with her family in the United States due to unreliable cellphone service and feels devastated every time she has to discard milk meant for her child.
Despite the distance, Heidy remains hopeful. The more time passes, the more she longs to find a way to get back to the United States to be with her husband and kid once more. The Cuban-American community, especially those who supported Trump in the 2024 election, may play a significant role in securing her return..
An Appeal for the Reunification of This Family
As Heidy’s story continues to get exposure, U.S. authorities, including Rep. Kathy Castor, are working to bring her family back together. The ongoing humanitarian crisis and the psychological effects of family separation have sparked outrage, making many question the fairness of the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Even though Heidy’s lawsuit can take years to resolve, the fight to reunite her family is still continuing strong.
Source: CNN
