A Cuban living in the United States has touched the hearts of thousands on TikTok after sharing that, after only eight months away from the Island, she decided to return unexpectedly due to her mother's deteriorating health, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and is bedridden.
“Reason may not be good, but it doesn't take away the joy of coming back to see family”, confessed @maibless3, moved, in one of the two videos she shared on her account. In them, she explains how she prepared for the trip, packing everything necessary, because in Cuba —she claims— “there is a need for even the most basic things”.
In his luggage, he included medications, hygiene products, canned food, coffee, milk, candies, rechargeable lamps, a portable charger, and even a steam fryer due to the shortage of oil on the Island. He also packed antibiotics and electrical devices to improve the energy conditions in the family home.
“I bought essential things for my mother's illness,” she said, visibly affected. Her mother has been suffering from rheumatoid arthritis for over 20 years, and recently she fell while using crutches, which caused a dislocation in her shoulder and a deep wound in her leg. Despite a month having passed, the injury still hasn’t healed.
"I hope I can return", she said in response to a question on TikTok about whether her trip was permanent. The medical situation of her mother, combined with the precariousness of the Cuban healthcare system, forced her to make this difficult decision: "We had to pack two suitcases each. We weighed the luggage every five minutes to make sure nothing was taken from us at the airport."
The testimony has generated a wave of support on social media. Dozens of people shared similar stories and offered medical advice, names of treatments, and words of encouragement. "There is only one mom. Do what your heart tells you", wrote a user.
Amid recommendations and messages of empathy, many Cubans expressed a painful truth: returning is not always a planned option. "I'm going back too. My parents are sick. They need me; I just have to go," wrote a user from Ecuador.
This case reflects a silent yet constant reality: that of those who emigrate in search of a better life but must return sooner than expected due to love, necessity, or urgency. Because, as someone mentioned in the comments, "A mother should not be abandoned."
Frequently asked questions about the challenges of returning to Cuba for family reasons
Why did this Cuban decide to return to Cuba from the U.S.?
She decided to return to Cuba due to her mother's health deterioration, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and requires urgent care. This decision was difficult but motivated by love and the need to care for her family during a critical time.
What challenges do Cubans face when returning to the island?
Cuban returnees face shortages of basic products and logistical challenges in bringing essential supplies. Additionally, they must carry medications, food, and hygiene items due to the precarious situation in Cuba.
How does the situation in Cuba affect those who wish to return temporarily?
The situation in Cuba, marked by scarcity and the deterioration of basic services, complicates the temporary return of emigrants, who must bring everything needed to address the shortages on the island, including electrical devices to cope with the blackouts.
What reactions have been generated on social media by the return of Cubans to the island?
The return of Cubans to the island has generated a wave of support and empathy on social media, where many people share similar stories and offer advice and words of encouragement, highlighting the importance of family and the sacrifices made for it.
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