An elderly man named Lázaro, aged 75 and living in Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus province, is in desperate need of surgery for two bilateral inguinal hernias. These conditions severely limit his mobility, and he lacks the necessary resources to obtain the surgical mesh and other supplies that the hospital does not provide.
The story has gained attention through the Facebook page "El Trinitario de a Pie," amassing over 23,500 views.
In a heartfelt video, Lázaro candidly shares his and his brother's dire circumstances. They reside in a dilapidated home and have both suffered strokes. "We both had strokes. First him and then me. I have two hernias like this. Now cataracts have appeared in both eyes. I can barely see. I'm diabetic, I'm hypertensive," he expressed.
Health Challenges and Lack of Family Support
Lázaro's 71-year-old brother also endured a stroke. Both siblings lack a strong family support network: Lázaro is childless, and his brother has only one child.
In addition to the hernias, Lázaro is afflicted with cataracts, diabetes, and hypertension, with a medical history that includes cancer surgery about ten years ago. He used to work as a cook.
Cuba's Healthcare Crisis Exposed
The shortage of necessary medications exacerbates Lázaro's plight. He requires metformin, enalapril, aspirin, and topical gel, none of which are available in pharmacies. "I need to take enalapril, but it's not there," he stated, adding that he lost his medication card, and the doctor’s promise to replace it has gone unfulfilled.
This case underscores a widespread issue in Cuban hospitals, where families must procure basic surgical supplies themselves. A 23-year-old Cuban patient attempting surgery in June was handed a handwritten list by the hospital of materials he needed to provide: polypropylene mesh, sutures, cannulas, catheters, and even two blood donations.
The scarcity of medications has reached critical levels: in April 2026, it was reported that 461 out of 651 essential drugs were not available in state pharmacies, a deficit exceeding 70% of the basic list. The crisis in Cuba's healthcare system extends to operating rooms, with the WHO reporting in May that over 100,000 surgeries were pending in the country.
Public Outcry and Call for Support
Comments on the video express outrage and sorrow. "It's too much and sad, an entire nation left to its fate while those responsible spout nonsense on social media. How is it possible for Cubans to live this way without consequence?" wrote Olga Lidia Rodriguez Benitez.
Another viewer, Lidia Hernandez, urged organizing a support network: "My God, these two poor gentlemen need a lot of help from everyone. How sad, how much neglect and lack of concern for the elderly, how they are suffering. I hope they can find some happiness in their final years."
The plight of elderly Cubans who once believed in the Revolution and now face institutional neglect is increasingly visible on social media. A survey of 506 retirees in five provinces revealed that 98.8% feel abandoned by the State, and 99% say their pension is insufficient for basic needs.
Despite everything, Lázaro remains hopeful: "I see everything so difficult but not impossible."
Understanding the Healthcare Crisis in Cuba
What medical conditions does Lázaro suffer from?
Lázaro suffers from bilateral inguinal hernias, cataracts in both eyes, diabetes, hypertension, and has a history of cancer surgery.
Why is Lázaro unable to get the surgery he needs?
Lázaro lacks the financial resources to acquire the surgical mesh and other supplies not provided by the hospital, and there is a severe shortage of medications and medical supplies in Cuba.
What is the public's reaction to Lázaro's situation?
The public has reacted with outrage and empathy, expressing anger at the government's neglect and calling for community support to help Lázaro and his brother.
How widespread is the medication shortage in Cuba?
As of April 2026, reports indicated that over 70% of essential drugs were unavailable in state pharmacies, affecting patients across the country.