Hello I am Michael Smith and I'm currently separated from my family. I was living in Japan for the last 6 years as an English teacher, and then I got word that my dad was having some hard times. My older brother was not taking care of him—his family was taking advantage of him, wiping out his monthly income and leaving only enough to pay for his house payment and electricity, but never enough for him to eat. The house was filled with cats, rats, and roaches. The conditions were unlivable, with no air conditioning or hot water. I called the police to request a wellness check. They said the place was so bad that they were probably going to have to take my dad away somewhere if I didn’t come help him. So I left Japan, took my dad back to Japan with me, and tried to get a visa. But the laws have changed so much in Japan that we couldn’t stay. Now I’m back in Arkansas, where I was born, with my dad. He has some health issues. He recently had cataract surgery on one of his eyes, and the next one is coming up soon. My family is in Japan waiting for my next move. It’s hard to find work at age 48. I work as a substitute teacher—the pay is very low. My back is not in the greatest condition; it feels like it’s going to lock up on me all the time. I’m looking for less stressful work with higher pay. I need some help. I just want to be with my son again—to play catch, play video games, and more. My son (Atreyu Kenshin Smith)  is 8 years old. He will turn 9 on December 26th, and I will turn 49 on December 27th. He was born premature, but he’s growing fast. I want my family here in America with me. My son is a US citizen, but his mom (Misako) is not, so I need help with her visa too. I’m depressed and stressed to the gills. Thank you.