Venezuelan Migrant Temporarily Released by ICE to Donate Kidney to Brother

José Gregorio González reunited with his critically ill brother after a one-year stay of removal was granted for the life-saving transplant.

José Gregorio González, detained by ICE since March 3, 2025, was temporarily released to donate a kidney to his brother, José Alfredo Pacheco, who has end-stage renal disease.
González traveled to the U.S. in 2024 to assist with his brother’s medical care but faced deportation after failing an initial asylum interview.
Following advocacy efforts by community members, elected officials, and over 1,700 petition signers, ICE granted a one-year stay of removal to facilitate the transplant.
The brothers were emotionally reunited on April 4, 2025, in Illinois, as they prepared to begin the transplant process the following week.
González’s kidney donation could potentially save an additional life through a paired kidney exchange program, underscoring the broader humanitarian impact of his release.