"My own personal struggles to receive treatment have motivated and encouraged me to pursue a medical career ... to alleviate the pain and suffering of others," he says. "A medical career will allow me many gratifying years of making a difference in the health and lives of others."

Chukwueke's journey to get legalized has seen many strangers rally to his help.

Inspired by his story, Sen. Carl Levin, a Michigan Democrat, sponsored the bill, S. 285. The measure passed the Senate in the summer and the House last week

Attorney Thomas K. Ragland took his case pro bono.

"Victor's story is remarkable," says Ragland, who is based in Washington D.C. "Here is this kid who comes from Nigeria, he was taunted and teased for his diseases, and he comes to this country and excels, despite so many surgeries. It is a testament of not letting anything get in the way."

The number of illegal immigrants in the United States was estimated at 11.5 million last year.

Following the signature, the State Department will reduce by one the number of immigrant visas available to Nigerians.