A 70-year-old Filipino grandmother and longtime green card holder is facing deportation after more than four decades in the United States, raising fears among her family and advocates that she may not survive the journey.
Rebecca Pinyerd, who has been detained for nine months, suffers from severe kidney disease, thyroid problems and uncontrolled high blood pressure, according to her family and migrant rights group Tanggol Migrante.
Health Declines in Detention
Advocates say Pinyerd’s medical condition has worsened while in custody due to alleged medical neglect at detention facilities. John Emiliano of Tanggol Migrante Chicago said her prolonged detention has placed her life at risk.
“Putting Tita Rebecca on a long flight would have exacerbated her conditions and endangered her life,” Emiliano said.
Deportation Flight Halted
Pinyerd was scheduled to be deported to the Philippines on Jan. 2, but advocates successfully pressured United Airlines to cancel the flight pending medical clearance.
Doctors supporting the campaign warned that her uncontrolled blood pressure puts her at high risk of developing dangerous blood clots during long-haul travel, which could lead to lung damage or sudden death.
National Advocacy Effort
On Dec. 30, Tanggol Migrante Chicago organized a national unity call attended by more than 300 people, including union members, healthcare workers and migrant advocates, urging authorities to stop the deportation and provide proper medical care.
The group is also calling on the Philippine Consulate in Chicago to help ensure Pinyerd receives her medication, gains access to her full medical records and is evaluated by an independent medical provider.
Family’s Plea
Pinyerd was arrested more than 20 years ago on drug charges and served 19 years in prison. After her release, she rebuilt her life with her husband in North Carolina, according to her daughter, April Lowe.
“She’s active in church, she donates, she wakes up early to walk,” Lowe said.
Pinyerd had been complying with annual check-ins with the Department of Homeland Security but was taken into custody during her March 2025 appointment. Her family and advocates say they will continue fighting for her release and medical care.
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