Family comes for medical care in Philadelphia and stays.

Interviewee: Marie Rojas
Interviewer: Harry L Tapia
Date: May, 1999
 
 

What is your nationality ?

My nationality is Puerto Rican.

When did you move to the U.S?

I moved to the U.S in June 3, 1991

Why did you leave your country?

I left my country because my daughter had to get operated on her ear. My mother lives in Philadelphia so I decided to come here. In Philadelphia there is one of the best hospital. That is another reason I came here.

How did your life change when you moved and what were the differences between the two places?

At first it was not easy. The language was the biggest difference between the two places. I needed an interpreter anywhere I went. It was real hard. I had to leave my husband, house, friends and family behind for period of time. I only came for two months but stayed for what is now 7 years because the operation took year and until this day my daughter is still going through operations on her ear.

What were your expectations about your destination?

What I expected was just to get help for my daughter and go back to my beautiful country.

How did you adapt to your new environment?

Well, at first I had to adapt to the winter. I have never been in the cold. I could not wait for the days to pass so I could go home but I am glad I did not leave . The economical statistic change. I had good job at home, now I had to go on welfare. Times were rough.

Do you regret moving?

Well, at the beginning I wanted to go back home. But as time past I got adapted to Philadelphia. I still miss my country. I have new life now and I would not give it up for anything in the world. I would like to go and enjoy my country but not stay. I have too much in my new world.

Is there anything you would like to add?

I think this trip has been for the best. If I would have not moved here I wouldn't have done a lot of thing like go to college, travel places like Ohio, New York, and Disney world. I think people have to make changes in their lives sometimes. You need to make the best out of your life.