Yamir Robinson Puente, better known in the music world as "El Teacher," has passed away this past Monday after a prolonged battle with a carcinoma that severely affected his lungs and other vital organs.
At the age of 45, Yamir was a father to three children and had been residing in Spain, where he was receiving treatment at the Infanta Margarita Hospital in Cabra, Córdoba.
Heartfelt Announcement from His Brother
The tragic news was confirmed by his brother, Yasser Robinson Puente, through an emotional video he shared on social media, which quickly garnered thousands of reactions.
Visibly shaken, Yasser announced his brother's passing with words that resonated deeply with the Cuban community abroad. "Unfortunately, I just received the call I never wanted to get. After battling a terrible illness for over a year, my brother has lost the fight," he said through tears.
Yasser described his brother Yamir as someone who faced his illness with incredible strength, even during his most challenging moments. "A true warrior has left us, a man who, knowing his imminent fate, was the one giving me strength and asking me to stay calm," he expressed.
Remembering a Founding Member of Kola Loka
Yamir Robinson was one of the original members of Kola Loka, a Cuban urban duo renowned for its successful hits in the genre. The group originated in 2001 in Tercer Frente, Santiago de Cuba, initially as a trio with Yasser, Yamir, and Ángel Torres Callard, known as Angelón.
As time passed, the project evolved into a duo with Yasser and Angelón, while Yamir distanced himself from the main lineup. Among the group's most popular tracks are "La estafa del babalao," "Terremoto" featuring Pánfilo, "El Indio," and "Booty grande."
Today, Yasser and Angelón are based in Miami, where they continue their musical endeavors.
The Fight Against Illness
In the months leading up to Yamir's death, Yasser Robinson initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover his brother's mounting medical expenses as he remained on life support.
In a candid post, Yasser detailed the grim situation: "A young man (45 years old) is fighting for his life against a carcinoma that has compromised his lungs and other vital organs, forcing him to rely on assisted breathing to stabilize him."
He also highlighted Yamir's role as a father: "A father to three children who hold onto the hope of embracing him once more."
The fundraising effort, organized alongside Jeison López, managed to gather €2,297 out of a €6,500 goal from 84 donors.
Efforts to Bring Yamir Home
Following the announcement of his passing, artist Noly Blak took to social media to urge supporters to keep the GoFundMe campaign active, now with a new purpose: raising funds to repatriate Yamir's body to Cuba.
"Let's keep the GoFundMe going to see if you can help raise money to bring his body back to Cuba, so his family can bid him a final farewell," Noly Blak stated.
Yasser Robinson concluded his heartfelt message with one last note of gratitude to all who supported his brother throughout this difficult journey: "Once again, thank you to everyone who showed compassion in this situation, truly."
FAQs on Yamir Robinson's Passing
Who was Yamir Robinson?
Yamir Robinson was a Cuban musician, recognized as "El Teacher" and a founding member of the urban music group Kola Loka.
What illness did Yamir Robinson suffer from?
Yamir Robinson battled a carcinoma that affected his lungs and other vital organs, eventually leading to his passing.
What was the purpose of the GoFundMe campaign?
The GoFundMe campaign was initially set up to cover Yamir Robinson's medical expenses and later aimed at raising funds to repatriate his body to Cuba.