The sudden passing of a young Cuban doctor, originally from Santiago de Cuba but practicing in Mantilla, a district in Havana's Arroyo Naranjo municipality, has triggered an outpouring of grief on social media over the past two days among colleagues and friends. Identified as Octavio Martínez Merbillet, the cause of his death remains unclear, although it has been described as natural causes.
"He fell ill with that pandemic that no one really knows what it is. His condition deteriorated so much that his colleagues couldn't do anything. It's very sad; we lost a wonderful person," wrote a user named Arledis Matos. However, this account was disputed by Yessi Torres, who stated that it was not "because of the virus."
Yanely Gámez, who identified herself as the aunt of the deceased doctor's wife, said the cause of death is still unknown. "Thanks to all his colleagues, neighbors, and friends, especially the management of the Mantilla polyclinic and its entire team, the medical staff at Julio Trigo. Words fail us; Yanny and everyone are grateful for all that was done. Rest in peace, my friend," Gámez wrote.
Community Mourning and Tributes
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the cause of death, the tributes and expressions of love following the young doctor's passing are truly overwhelming. "How do you say goodbye to a friend? How do you say goodbye to a colleague? There are no answers that can ease the pain we all feel. We lost an exceptional doctor, an extraordinary man," wrote Mirtania Borges Ortiz.
"We will never forget you; you will always be with those of us who knew you. We cannot accept your loss. I know you will be with us. May God welcome you into His kingdom. Fly high, Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet," she added. Borges shared a photo of what appears to be an altar in honor of the deceased doctor, seemingly set up in the Mantilla hospital or at Clinic 24, where he practiced according to several sources.
"Your death will bring sadness not only to us, your family and loved ones but also to those you cared for in their times of need. They will suffer the most because you were an outstanding doctor, a truly exceptional physician," part of the tribute reads. Alongside flowers, a photo, and his white coat, a heartfelt letter completed the homage.
"Farewell, my friend... Fly high, doctor," wrote Yessi Torres in the Facebook group Somos Mantilla, sharing the images. Some people recounted their positive experiences with the doctor. One of the most touching was from a man who said that Dr. Octavio first treated his grandmother's fracture and had recently monitored his wife's pregnancy.
"An excellent doctor and a wonderful human being. When my late grandmother had her health issue due to a fracture, he was there every step of the way, never hesitating for a second. He loved his profession and his patients. During my wife's pregnancy, he was equally present. That's why my wife and I decided to name our newborn Jonatán Octavio in honor of our brave and compassionate doctor," he wrote.
As of the close of this report, no further details about the young doctor's tragic death have been disclosed.
Questions About the Sudden Death of Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the sudden and tragic passing of Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet, aiming to provide clarity on this heartbreaking event.
What was the cause of Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet's death?
The exact cause of Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet's death remains unclear. While some speculate it was due to a pandemic-related illness, this has been disputed, and the official cause is still under investigation.
How has the community reacted to Dr. Octavio's passing?
The community has expressed profound grief and shared numerous tributes on social media. Colleagues, friends, and patients have all conveyed their sorrow and admiration for the late doctor.
Where did Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet practice?
Dr. Octavio Martínez Merbillet practiced in Mantilla, a district in Havana's Arroyo Naranjo municipality, and was associated with the Julio Trigo medical team.
What tributes have been made in honor of Dr. Octavio?
Tributes include heartfelt messages on social media, a makeshift altar with flowers, his white coat, and a letter. A family even named their newborn after him to honor his legacy.