A Cuban father of three young children has taken to Facebook to seek help in obtaining a prosthetic limb, following the loss of his leg over a year ago and facing financial constraints.
Eddy Darío, a resident of the municipality of Cruces in the province of Cienfuegos, shared his appeal in donation and support groups, explaining his urgent need for an articulated knee and a size 26 orthopedic foot to have a prosthetic made in Cuba.
"A little over a year ago, due to life's circumstances, I lost my left foot. I am in desperate need of a prosthesis, as they are extremely expensive here and I have no means to afford one," wrote the 30-year-old former railroad conductor.
He described how the challenging economic situation prevents him from acquiring the necessary components, while he strives to provide for his family and take care of his three children.
"I am not asking for money, just if someone is able to donate," he added in his post, sharing his contact details and personal address for potential donors.
The situation has sparked an outpouring of support on social media, with users sharing his post in hopes of reaching individuals or organizations capable of assisting the man from Cienfuegos.
Social Media: A Lifeline for Cubans in Need
This case is part of a larger trend where Cubans with disabilities, due to the lack of state support, turn to social media as their only avenue for acquiring medical devices or work tools.
Another documented instance involves Yasmany Jasiel García Sánchez, a double amputee, also from Cruces, Cienfuegos, who in September 2022 publicly sought silicone fittings for his prosthetics to prevent injuries.
From the Cuban diaspora, Osmar González, who emigrated to Florida, launched a GoFundMe campaign in December 2025 to cover the cost of a prosthetic ranging from $40,000 to $50,000, successfully raising over $36,000 thanks to the viral nature of his story.
In January of this year, a disabled young man in Cuba regained mobility through citizen donations that allowed him to acquire a battery for his wheelchair, illustrating how public solidarity fills the gaps left by the state.
Challenges in Cuban Healthcare System
The deep-rooted crisis in Cuba's healthcare system, exacerbated by decades of dictatorship, has left people with disabilities without adequate access to orthopedic prosthetics, rehabilitation supplies, or formal employment adapted to their needs.
In light of this institutional void, Facebook has emerged as the primary platform for assistance among disabled Cubans seeking support. Documented cases from 2022 to 2026 show that citizen responses—both within and outside the island—have become the only genuine support for those in dire need.
FAQs About Prosthetic Assistance in Cuba
Why do Cubans turn to social media for medical assistance?
Many Cubans with disabilities have limited access to state resources, making social media a crucial tool for seeking help and donations for medical devices and other necessities.
What challenges do disabled individuals face in Cuba?
Disabled individuals in Cuba often lack access to essential medical supplies, prosthetics, and employment opportunities suited to their conditions due to systemic issues in the healthcare system.
How has the diaspora contributed to helping Cubans in need?
The Cuban diaspora has actively participated in fundraising efforts, such as GoFundMe campaigns, to provide financial support for medical needs that are otherwise unattainable for many on the island.