A Cuban citizen recently passed away in Suriname, leaving his family facing a difficult situation in repatriating his body to his homeland.
Fernando Orasma Sánchez, affectionately known as "Nando," passed away in Suriname on November 24, 2024, the details of which were not shared by the family.
Originally from Bejucal, in Mayabeque, Cuba, he lived on 12th Street between 3rd and 1st, where he was well-loved by his community.
Daymaris, a close family friend, has organized a campaign on the GoFundMe platform to raise the necessary funds to cover the funeral expenses and the repatriation of Nando's remains to Cuba. The description of the campaign explains:
"Today, his only son, who has been in the country for a very short time and will forever remember this tragic event since his father passed away on his birthday, needs the support of everyone who can donate, especially from the people of Bejucal."
Fernando's mother, Nereida Sánchez, also made an emotional appeal via Facebook, asking for support to raise the necessary funds. In her post, she expressed her gratitude in advance for any assistance that may come.
The family hopes to raise enough funds to cover the high costs associated with repatriation, a complex and financially demanding process.
The campaign is active on GoFundMe, and contributions, no matter how small, will greatly help alleviate the burden on this grieving family.
The passing of Nando is the latest in a series of tragedies that have affected the Cuban community in Suriname.
In March 2024, a couple of Cubans lost their lives in a traffic accident in the country, highlighting the challenges faced by Cuban migrants in covering the costs of repatriating bodies.
Recently, at the end of November 2024, two more Cubans lost their lives in another traffic accident in Suriname, heightening the community's concerns about safety and living conditions in that country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Repatriation of Deceased Cubans Abroad
How can the relatives of Cubans who passed away in Suriname repatriate their bodies to Cuba?
The repatriation of bodies from Suriname to Cuba involves a complex and costly process, which is why families often turn to fundraising campaigns on platforms like GoFundMe. These campaigns aim to cover the high costs associated with the transportation of remains and funeral services.
Why is the repatriation of bodies to Cuba so expensive?
The repatriation of bodies involves significant expenses due to legal procedures, embalming, transportation, and funeral services, both in the country of death and in Cuba. These costs can be prohibitive for many families, especially given the current economic context in Cuba.
What challenges do Cubans abroad face when they pass away and need to be repatriated?
Cubans abroad may face challenges such as a lack of financial resources, bureaucratic complications, and the need for community support to facilitate the repatriation of their loved ones. Economic difficulties and geographical distances further complicate this process for the affected families.
What support mechanisms are available for Cuban families seeking to repatriate their loved ones?
Families often turn to online fundraising platforms like GoFundMe and Donorbox, seeking community solidarity to raise the necessary funds. Additionally, social media plays a crucial role in spreading these campaigns and mobilizing support from the Cuban diaspora.
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