JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — When Juan and Madison Pestana went on their first date in 2023, Juan vowed to always keep a bouquet of fresh flowers on the kitchen table. For nearly two years, he did exactly that. Their love story was a whirlwind: she, an introverted medical student from North Carolina, and he, a charismatic construction business owner from Venezuela.
They met at a sushi bar, and despite initial skepticism, the night turned into a lengthy conversation that lasted until 2 a.m. Madison described Juan as her best friend and the love of her life.
However, their love faced a grim challenge when immigration agents arrived unexpectedly outside their Miami apartment, detaining Juan on the day of Madison's medical school graduation. She witnessed his brutal arrest, vividly recalling feeling that it mirrored a kidnapping, prompting concern from neighbors.
Juan has been held in detention since then, accused by immigration authorities of being unlawfully in the U.S. His wife argues that he unknowingly overstayed his visa due to exploitation by a notary service during their green card application process.
While Madison moved to Jacksonville to begin her surgical residency, she travels more than 300 miles each weekend to visit Juan in Broward County. Their visits are painful and restrictive; they can only embrace twice per visit. She reflects, “I am living my worst nightmare,” emphasizing the inhumanity of their situation.
Initially a supporter of stricter immigration policies under former President Trump, Madison now feels betrayed, stating that she believed the changes would enhance safety but instead created peril for her and Juan. Current immigration statistics indicate that 60,000 individuals are currently held in detention, many of whom have no criminal backgrounds and find themselves at the mercy of a flawed immigration system.
The Pestanas’ story showcases the personal impact of political decisions, illustrating how the system has failed them despite their attempts to pursue their dreams legally. Madison hopes for a future where she and Juan can share what they built together, while Juan longs to remain in the country they both consider home.
“I made my life here,” Juan said. “I want to stay because we have a family here.” Meanwhile, Madison feels the emptiness of their home without Juan, holding onto his shirt on his pillow as a reminder of his presence.
