On Wednesday at 4:00 p.m., a solemn mass took place at the chapel of Colón Cemetery in Havana to honor the memory of young Geobel Damir Ortiz. The boy passed away in Miami following years of inadequate medical care and ineffective treatments in Cuba. The religious ceremony was organized by his family, friends, and activists who braved government threats to unite in prayer for the child's soul.
Mercedes Báez, Damir's grandmother, arrived at the service with her trusted caregiver, Daniel. Overcome with emotion, Mercedes was consoled by the many who gathered to support her in her grief. "Her sole wish is to pay tribute to her grandson," several attendees remarked.
Nevertheless, the farewell ceremony faced hurdles due to restrictions imposed by the Cuban regime. Activist Lara Crofs, whose real name is Yamilka Lafita, was instrumental in organizing the mass but was detained at home by State Security agents, preventing her attendance. "They blocked my street to stop me from going. Today is not for confrontation, but I cannot silence my frustration," Lafita stated during a live broadcast on social media, where she also shared footage of police vehicles stationed outside her house.
Lafita emphasized that her absence would not diminish the heartfelt tribute's significance, saying, "This isn't about me. It's about a community wishing to honor with love and empathy." Despite the repression, the mass proceeded as planned, led by Father Jorge Luis, in an atmosphere marked by reflection, prayer, and unity.
During the service, prayers were offered not only for Damir but for all sick children in Cuba. "Lord, have mercy," was the collective cry, accompanied by tears and heartfelt supplications.
Meanwhile, messages of support for Damir's family and outrage over the regime's attempts to politicize his case have proliferated across social media and independent news outlets. The plight of Damir, highlighted by his mother's pleas over the past two years amid Cuba's medicine shortages, rallied thousands of Cubans both domestically and abroad. Though ultimately futile, their efforts led to his transfer to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, where he arrived critically ill due to a resistant bacterial infection caused by poor antibiotic management. The Cuban community in Miami has since shown unwavering support for Damir's mother, organizing a tribute in his honor.
Key Questions About Damir Ortiz's Case
What led to Damir Ortiz's passing?
Damir Ortiz passed away due to a severe bacterial infection that was resistant to treatment, stemming from inadequate antibiotic management in Cuba.
How did the Cuban regime respond to the mass in Damir's honor?
The Cuban regime imposed restrictions, such as detaining activist Lara Crofs, to prevent her from attending the mass, reflecting their attempts to control public gatherings.
What role did the Cuban community in Miami play?
The Cuban community in Miami provided significant support to Damir's family, organizing memorials and offering assistance following his transfer to Miami for medical care.