I Want My Kids to Have Better Lives Here.
By Nara Shin
Sugey and her two beautiful children (Azlix and Dioxer) are from Venezuela. Formerly employed at a children's hospital while pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse, Sugey's deep love for children fueled her ambitions. However, her aspirations were thwarted amidst the political and medical complexities of Venezuela.
Her daughter suffered from a serious medical condition which could not be treated in her country due to a lack of qualified medical professionals and much-needed medications. She felt overwhelmed and hopeless. It was at this pivotal moment that Sugey decided to move from Venezuela to Ecuador. She felt that this life-changing decision would secure a better future for her children and ensure that would not have to go through what she has gone through.
Sugey stayed in Ecuador for four years, working as a self-employed vendor selling candy and cigarettes at bus stops. However, in 2022, a director and a tutor at her son's school began to bully him, and another student at the school was killed by fellow students. Fearing for her son's safety, Sugey decided to start a journey to the United States in search of a better quality of life, which values freedom.
Forced to navigate dark jungles and dangerous cities, Sugey and her children faced unimaginable risks. "I am so sad because I left all my family behind in the country and I don’t any family outside this country," Sugey said.
After an arduous journey, Sugey finally found refuge in Chicago. Her arrival however, brought new challenges as she struggled to find employment. She flew to Seattle to find better options and support. It wasn't until she reached Seattle and encountered Thrive at a local church soccer field that her fortunes began to change.
Now residing in the DoubleTree hotel, where Thrive provides temporary housing for asylum seekers contracted with King County, Sugey expressed immense gratitude, stating, "I am so happy and thankful right now because Thrive is my family now."
Looking ahead, Sugey remains determined to continue her work at a children's hospital, aspiring to offer care to those in need. Her ultimate desire is to ensure her children lead lives far removed from the hardships she endured. "My everything is for kids, and my kids are everything for me," she said.
Sugey looks forward to a brighter future where she can achieve her dreams and provide her children with the opportunities they deserve. With her unwavering spirit, she is on her way to creating a new life filled with hope, promise, and a sense of belonging. "Sometimes, I feel alone. I feel no support. But I really want to put my best effort into this country," she shared.
