Day in an out, Lorenzo Hernandez watched how life deteriorated and became increasingly difficult to survive above poverty level in la sierra (ghetto) of Veracruz in Mexico. Those who were lucky enough to leave did so at an earlier age. And they never looked back. Those who were left behind, particularly the women, were older, with husbands who promised to return or send money for them, but never did. They remained behind to support their children by growing coffee and vegetables and then selling them to their neighbors for daily survival money. Lorenzo lived with hisaging father. Thelast child and only male born toMarcelo Antonio Hernandez, was raised on the concept of two things: the love for his family, and working as hard as he can to help them.

After so many years of struggling with his aging father and three sisters, Lorenzo found the courage and opportunity to leave to Americafor a better life. In America, he began working odds and end jobs all the while saving his money andweekly sending to his family in Mexico.One day, he met an Americanteacher and they fell in love. Things began to look up for them as she started a small business and he worked in the business. He also learned English and began assimilating into the American culture making many friends. Lorenzo was a hard worker. He became a great carpenter building anything from the ground up. Three years later theywere engaged to be married and Lorenzo was picked up for driving without a license. He was voluntarily deported. Lorenzoreturned to Mexico where it is even more dangerous than he remembered. Having lived in the United States for 11 years he found great changes. Most of everyone he grew up with are now deceased either from violence or poverty. Lorenzo needs to come back to America where he considers it his home. He has family here and has become a part of hi fiancée's family as well. Please help!