ALTON – A woman is nervous she may lose her chance at becoming a legal permanent resident of the United States.

Andrea Carmona is in the process of becoming a U.S. resident.

“It’s really important for me to be able to work," explains Carmona. "I haven't been able to work in four years. I need to work to be able to get ahead with my husband. I need my papers to stay legal, to get ahead."

Carmona's husband, Domingo, is already a legal resident. He petitioned for Andrea to become one as well. Domingo is in poor health.

He's been diagnosed with diabetes, paraplegia, hypertension, lumbar spinal stenosis, and a malignant neoplasm of the left kidney.

CHANNEL 5 NEWS wanted to speak to Domingo. He was receiving treatment at the time of our visit with Andrea. She fears her husband may pass away before she receives her residency.

"I'm frustrated, nervous, I'm depressed," said Carmona. "I spend my nights looking out the window, worried about what will happen."

Rio Grande Valley immigration attorney Lionel Perez told CHANNEL 5 NEWS Andrea's chance of becoming a resident depends on the health of her husband.

"If I'm a lawful permanent resident and I petition for my wife and I pass away the case is over," said Perez. ''The law is very clear. The only people that will continue to be eligible to get an immigrant visa are the spouses of United States citizens."

Andrea told CHANNEL 5 NEWS living in uncertain times is beginning to take its toll.

"I'm worried one day they'll come for me," said Andrea. "It's very difficult because being so desperate because of my husband's illness, being near him ... and thinking about what'll happen to us."

It could be months before she moves into the next phase of her application status.