Two Asylum Seekers made a dangerous trek from the United States, walking across farmers' fields to cross the Canadian border. They suffered severe frostbite, losing the use of their hands in the process but they don't regret the risk they took to seek Asylum In Canada. The pair, originally from Ghana realize that they are lucky to be alive even though they lost their fingers, toes and an ear. The two men walked for 10 hours in snow and freezing temperatures, losing their hats and mitts along the way. They were spotted at the side of the road by a truck who called for help.
Risking their lives for a better life
The threat of deportation from the United States was the main reason for the desperate walk to the Canadian border according to . Both asylum seekers were facing deportation from the US after their refugee claim in that country was denied. The two men hired a taxi to take them to the North Dakota – Emerson Manitoba border and began their long journey to claim asylum. Both men said they feared persecution or death if they returned home.
Paying the price
It was a tough price for the two asylum seeker – the loss fingers and other body parts While they are grateful to be alive and happy to be in Canada, the pair face difficult challenges in the future. Severe frostbite took away their ability to use their hands and they are struggling to cope with simple tasks like getting dressed, cooking and taking care of themselves.
Yet the two men have made it clear that they do not regret their decision to cross the border.
Will they stay or will they go
The fate of the two men who lost their fingers due to severe frostbite is still uncertain. While they are expected to move into a private home sponsored by the Hospitality House Refuge Ministry, their cases for refugee status are still to be heard by Canadian immigration authorities.
They two men are hoping that their refugee claim is successful and that they can finally call Canada home.
Options for refugees who are refused
The two asylum seekers will still have a chance to remain in Canada even if their claims are rejected, which may either prolong the inevitable or they could get the decision overturned.
Rejected refugee claimants are able to appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division but not all rejected claimants are able to appeal. Other options include applying for a judicial review and in exceptional cases, appealing to stay in the country based on compassionate and humanitarian grounds.
