A Cuban woman staged a solitary protest outside the "Juan Manuel Márquez" Pediatric Hospital in Havana, demanding medical care for 10-year-old Damir Ortiz Ramírez. Damir suffers from neurofibromatosis type 1 and a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, along with a possible leukemia diagnosis still under investigation.
The protester stood outside the hospital holding a sign that read "SOS DAMIR THE LETTER NOW. We want you alive. JUSTICE," directly appealing to Cuban health authorities. So far, they have denied permission for Damir to receive specialized medical treatment in the United States.
Damir is currently in critical condition in the hospital's intensive care unit, suffering from kidney damage and severe eye inflammation. His mother, Eliannis Ramírez, has repeatedly criticized the lack of resources in Cuba’s healthcare system necessary to treat his condition. She has requested a humanitarian visa to transfer him to a Miami hospital willing to accept him.
Nevertheless, the Cuban Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) has refused to issue the authorization letter, claiming that the country has adequate resources for his treatment. Damir's plight has sparked widespread support both within and outside Cuba, highlighting the healthcare crisis and bureaucratic hurdles that prevent patients from accessing proper medical attention.
On social media, activists have launched fundraising campaigns and called for international pressure to ensure the child receives the urgent care he needs. Despite the woman's call for a protest in support of Damir's health, no one joined her, leaving her to demonstrate alone.
"Here I am at the hospital, and no one came. This is why we are where we are because when it matters, it's all likes and hearts, but no one steps forward. There's more fear than money here, and that's why we have to endure everything that comes our way," she commented.
As of now, it is unclear if the woman faced any repercussions for her protest, given the Cuban government's restrictive stance on public demonstrations.
FAQs on Damir's Health Crisis and Cuban Healthcare
What is the current health condition of Damir Ortiz Ramírez?
Damir is in critical condition, suffering from kidney damage and severe eye inflammation, and is currently in the intensive care unit.
Why has the Cuban Ministry of Public Health denied the authorization for Damir's treatment abroad?
The Cuban Ministry of Public Health argues that the country has sufficient resources to treat Damir's condition and therefore has not issued the authorization for treatment abroad.
What actions have activists taken to support Damir's case?
Activists have launched fundraising campaigns and called for international pressure to help Damir receive the urgent medical care he needs.