Hilda marked her 100th birthday surrounded by loved ones in Miami, yet one absence left a void no celebration could fill: that of her twin sister Teresa, who remains in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. The sisters have not seen each other in person for three years.
Their poignant story, recently shared by the Instagram account @mimaypipo.oficial, has touched the hearts of thousands.
Born on September 1, 1926, Hilda made the move to Miami at the age of 97, leaving Teresa behind on the island. Separated by the sea and Cuba's challenging circumstances, their bond remains strong through daily phone calls.
“I came here three years ago, and it's been three years since I last saw her in person,” Hilda said in a video. “I call her every day to talk, and she tells me, ‘You call me every day!’”
A Family Tied by Unique Bonds
Teresa often urges Hilda to visit — “I hope you come soon,” she says — but Hilda responds with a phrase reflecting the island’s harsh reality: “She’s eager for me to go, but I can’t. How could I, with things being so bad there?”
The twins' lives are intertwined in extraordinary ways; both married brothers. Hilda wed Hipólito Simón, and two years later, Teresa became involved with Hipólito's brother. “Our children are almost like siblings, since their fathers are brothers and their mothers are the same,” Hilda explained.
Living Apart, Yet Together
This isn’t the first time their story has captured public attention. In September 2018, when the twins turned 92, they were living together in Cuba, dreaming of celebrating their century mark together. “We can’t live without each other!” they once declared. However, Hilda’s emigration at 97 physically separated them, though their emotional connection remains intact.
Despite her age, Hilda’s independence is remarkable. She doesn’t take medications — only something for her eyesight — and she is free from diabetes or chronic illnesses. Hilda walks unassisted, bathes herself, tends her balcony plants, cleans, and makes coffee. “No, I don’t take medicine, just something for my eyes. I’m not diabetic or anything,” she affirmed.
Lessons in Longevity
Hilda credits her long life to a simple philosophy: “Live without worrying, move forward, enjoy life as best you can, and stay happy. Whatever comes your way... just keep moving forward, and you’ll see how happy you can be, you hear?”
The story of Hilda and Teresa reflects a broader trend of Cuban families fragmented by emigration, where elderly parents cross the ocean seeking a better future — or to reunite with their children — leaving behind those who cannot or choose not to leave.
The loneliness faced by many elderly Cuban emigrants in Miami is a theme documented by @mimaypipo.oficial.
Hilda’s greatest wish upon turning 100 is both simple and currently challenging: to once again embrace her twin sister in Cuba.
Common Questions About Cuban Family Separation
Why did Hilda move to Miami?
Hilda moved to Miami at the age of 97, likely seeking a better quality of life and the opportunity to be with other family members who had emigrated.
How do Hilda and Teresa maintain their relationship?
Despite the distance, Hilda and Teresa maintain their relationship through daily phone calls, keeping their emotional bond strong.
What is Hilda’s secret to longevity?
Hilda attributes her long life to living without worry, moving forward with life, and enjoying it to the fullest while staying happy.