Wael Tarabishi was just 30 years old when he passed away due to Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder that weakens muscles and leads to heart problems. His family faced a heartbreaking situation when they learned that his father, Maher Tarabishi, could not leave immigration detention to attend the funeral.
Despite pleas for his temporary release so he could say goodbye, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) denied the request. Attorney Ali Elhorr expressed deep disappointment, calling the decision a lack of humanity.
The family’s struggle began three months earlier when Maher was detained during a routine immigration check-in in Dallas. His family had hoped that he could care for Wael in his final days. Unfortunately, as Wael’s health deteriorated, they merely wished for Maher to say farewell in person.
The day before the funeral, negotiations were attempted with ICE to allow Maher to attend. Immigration officials had seemed open to facilitating his release but ultimately refused.
Wael’s sister-in-law, Shahd Arnaout, shared how difficult it was to care for Wael without his father. Maher handled all aspects of Wael’s care, from administering medication to bathing him. His absence created chaos during a time already filled with pain.
As Wael’s health declined, he faced multiple hospitalizations, including sepsis and infections. Tragically, he passed away without his father’s presence. Hours before Wael’s death, the family once again appealed to ICE for Maher’s release; the request was denied.
Maher came to the United States from Kuwait in 1994, fleeing violence, and had been a reliable caregiver for Wael, who had battled serious health issues his entire life. In 2006, an immigration court ordered Maher’s removal, but he was allowed to stay due to his role as Wael’s caretaker. His long tenure in the U.S. included regular check-ins with immigration officials.
As they faced the tragedy of losing Wael, the family grappled with the impact of Maher’s detention on their emotional and mental well-being. Arnaout noted that Wael’s health appeared to decline with Maher’s absence, leading to feelings of insecurity.
The family’s ordeal highlights the human side of immigration policies. Even when regulations allow for family ties to be maintained during distressing times, the reality can be more complex and heartbreaking. The National Immigration Justice Center reports that nearly 70% of immigrants in detention are eligible for release, underscoring the need for compassionate considerations in such situations.
Further complicating the narrative, Maher’s immigration status has drawn attention. His family insists he has followed all the necessary regulations to remain in the U.S., while officials have labeled him a “self-admitted member” of a political organization, the Palestine Liberation Organization. This has heightened the scrutiny around his case.
Despite this turmoil, the emotional strain of separation wears heavily on families like the Tarabishis, who are navigating not only grief but also the daunting immigration system.
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