'US denied my son's dying wish'

2003-07-18 08:28

Johan Rheeder

Cape Town - "I don't understand how they could refuse to let a mother visit her dying son."

So says heartbroken Carrol Schaffer of Hanover Park whose son Luke, 22, died in the United States on Tuesday. She was refused a visa to the US.

Luke travelled to the US four years ago to work as a missionary at Camp Seagull in North Corolina.

Last year, he developed back pains and a malignant tumour was removed. His condition deteriorated and he was too weak to return home.

When his condition worsened drastically, Luke asked his mother to visit him for the last time.

But Schaffer was unable to grant her son's wish because the US consulate refused to give her a visa.

"They treated me badly and said they couldn't give me a visa because I was unemployed," she said.

Gave proof her costs would be covered

She said the consulate repeatedly told her there was nothing wrong with her son's health, despite certificates American doctors had sent her.

She also gave the consulate proof that friends would cover her travel, board and lodging costs.

According to a relative, Conita Henry, the person they dealt with at the consulate was extremely "unhelpful and rude" and did not want to listen to their request.

"Even if you paid me, I'd never set foot in that country."

A consular spokesperson said information on visa applications and reasons for refusal were confidential.

The consulate offered the Schaffer family its condolences.

Luke will be cremated and his ashes returned to South Africa.

- Die Burger