Ofelia Torres’ Courage Amid Cancer and Family Struggle
Ofelia Torres, 16, passed away Friday after battling Stage 4 alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer. She had been diagnosed in December 2024.
Her father, Ruben Torres Maldonado, was detained by ICE on October 18, 2025, while Ofelia was at home from the hospital. After his arrest, Ofelia posted a heartfelt video on Instagram advocating for his release and highlighting challenges faced by immigrant families.
Torres Maldonado was freed about two weeks later on a $2,000 bond after a judge considered his daughter’s treatment during the hearing, NBC Chicago reported.
In her video, Ofelia spoke about her father’s dedication. “My dad, like many others, is a hardworking person who wakes up early and goes to work without complaining, thinking about his family,” she said. “I find it so unfair that hardworking immigrant families are being targeted just because they were not born here.” The video included family photos and pictures of Ofelia in the hospital.
DHS Statement and Legal Background
The Department of Homeland Security highlighted Torres Maldonado’s legal history, noting prior charges including driving without insurance, speeding, and not having a valid license. A DHS spokesperson also said he resisted arrest, attempted to flee, and hit a government vehicle. The agency emphasized it would continue enforcing the law.
Shortly before Ofelia’s death, a Chicago judge ruled that Torres Maldonado could qualify for cancellation of removal, citing the impact his deportation would have on his U.S. citizen children. This decision may pave the way for him to gain permanent residence and eventually citizenship. Ofelia attended the hearing via Zoom three days before passing away.
Remembering Ofelia’s Bravery
Kalman Resnick, Torres Maldonado’s lawyer, praised Ofelia’s courage. “She was heroic and brave in the face of ICE’s detention and the threat of her father’s deportation,” Resnick said. “We mourn Ofelia’s passing and hope she will inspire others to fight for what’s right until their last breath.”
Ofelia was a junior at Chicago’s Lake View High School. Her advocacy and resilience left a lasting impression on her community, highlighting the human impact of immigration enforcement policies.
