 The American Citizenship oath ceremony had a very special guest on Tuesday June 13, 2006. Ruben Dario Vasco was born in Medellín, Colombia 28 years ago with the genetic variation responsible for Down Syndrome. Nine years ago, Ruben arrived with his mother to the United States after being separated from his father for nearly ten years who was living in Miami eagerly waiting the day when his family could be reunited. In 1989, Ruben’s father petitioned for his family and they were granted amnesty in the US. In 1993, Ruben and his mother applied for and were granted residency. Since his arrival in the United States Ruben has dreamt of becoming a U.S. Citizen.
Although it has been a difficult road for Ruben after having lost his father and best friend just a year ago; he continues to excel and achieve his many goals and aspirations. Ruben’s father was his pillar of strength and source of inspiration. Ruben’s life has always been marked by a special kind of triumph and unyielding determination. He has graduated from high school and is currently taking computer classes as a means of continuing his education. For the past 8 years he has been employed with the same company where he is deeply respected and loved. He has a girlfriend named Jessica who also has Down Syndrome. “After I become a citizen I would like to get married. I want to continue studying and working to help my mom” said Ruben Dario who after his father passed a way he has become the man of the house.
Ruben and his family are very thankful for the opportunities available to them in the United States. “I love this country a lot because it has open several doors of opportunity to my son. The best thing that ever happened is to come to his country and watch how my son progress every day. His Dad above and me are proud of him” said his mother Morelia Vasco. Despite the many limitations faced by this extraordinary young immigrant he was able to achieve his goal and dream of becoming an American Citizen.
This is not only a success for the Vasco family but also for all of us at CASA who have been working with the Vasco family from the very start. We are very proud of Ruben and are looking forward to aiding in his continued success. |
