My grandpa came to America in 1953 from northern Italy. When he came to America he felt like he had no future because he was a deaf man that barely knew any ASL. His only chance at surviving in America was through the gang Hells Angels. He left a lot behind in Italy: his parents, siblings, and his best friend. His best friend, Andrea, lived in Italy along with my grandpa. My grandpa left Italy without knowing what would happen to Andrea. A few years after my grandpa left Italy he received the news that Andrea had died. Andrea’s family sent my grandpa a picture of Andrea when he first moved to his town. Andrea knew he was sick and so did grandpa, but he never could prepare for Andrea’s death. Andrea was a big part of my grandpa’s life and was the one to convince him to move to America. Andrea wanted grandpa to have a better life, find a wife, and have kids. Once my grandpa met my grandma he left Hells Angels and had nine beautiful children, the youngest being my mom. I am thankful for Andrea and his strength, he helped my grandpa through thick and thin. Without Andrea’s help I wouldn’t be here.

– K

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant