Couple Sought Humanitarian Visa for ALS Care
A family has petitioned for assistance as a caregiver remains unable to enter the United States.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Eldercare
Jenny Slatten, 68, has been managing worsening ALS and requires a return to the United States for ongoing medical treatment. Her husband, Sumit Singh, has been denied a visa, prompting a request for an emergency humanitarian visa to ensure he can continue his role as her primary caregiver.
Why it matters
Access to dedicated caregiving can be a critical factor in managing neurodegenerative conditions like ALS, which often require complex medical support. This situation highlights the challenges families face when travel barriers disrupt established support systems during a health crisis.
A public fundraising campaign has secured over $130,000 of its $250,000 goal to cover medical expenses. The total financial requirement for the necessary treatment and associated support remains subject to evolving clinical needs.
The players
Jenny Slatten
A 68-year-old patient managing a progressive diagnosis of ALS.
Sumit Singh
A 38-year-old who serves as the primary caregiver for his wife, Jenny Slatten.
Christina Cuevas
An individual who appealed to California lawmakers to request an emergency humanitarian visa.
The details
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that impacts motor neurons, eventually affecting the ability to control muscles needed for movement and daily activities. As the condition advances, patients often require consistent assistance with mobility and complex medical tasks. Slatten, who expects to transition to wheelchair use soon, relies on the care provided by Singh to manage these daily needs while awaiting medical follow-up in the United States.
Timeline
The couple married in 2021.
In June 2026, Slatten reported she expected to require a wheelchair soon.
Health Landscape
This situation reflects the increasing reliance on community-funded campaigns to bridge gaps in support when personal resources fall short. It sits within a broader trend where families increasingly turn to public support to navigate the high costs of care for neurodegenerative conditions.
For those managing progressive conditions, establishing a clear caregiving plan with family and physicians is vital as mobility needs change. It is worth discussing the logistics of long-term support with your doctor to identify what professional or community resources may be available.
The takeaway
Proactive planning for the evolving needs of progressive neurodegenerative diseases is essential for maintaining quality of life. Patients and families should regularly consult with healthcare providers about future mobility needs and necessary home-care support systems.
Further reading
Find more resources on managing long-term care needs at the Eldercare hub.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Complex.
