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A Cuban woman staged a solitary protest outside the "Juan Manuel Márquez" Pediatric Hospital in Havana, demanding medical attention for 10-year-old Damir Ortiz Ramírez, who suffers from type 1 neurofibromatosis and a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, as well as a possible leukemia under investigation.
The protester appeared outside the hospital carrying a sign with the phrase "SOS DAMIR GET THE LETTER NOW. We want you alive. JUSTICE", making a direct appeal to the Cuban health authorities, who have so far denied the authorization for Damir to receive specialized medical attention in the United States.
Damir is currently in critical condition in the intensive care unit of the hospital, with kidney damage and severe eye inflammation.
Her mother, Eliannis Ramírez, has repeatedly reported the lack of resources in the Cuban healthcare system to treat his condition, and has requested a humanitarian visa to take him to a hospital in Miami that has agreed to accept him.
However, the Ministry of Public Health of Cuba (MINSAP) has refused to issue the authorization letter, arguing that the country has the necessary resources for his treatment.
The case of Damir has sparked a wave of solidarity both within and outside of Cuba, with numerous complaints about the crisis in the healthcare system and the bureaucracy that prevents patients from accessing appropriate medical care.
On social media, activists have launched fundraising campaigns and called for international pressure so that the child can receive the urgent care he needs.
However, in response to this woman's call to protest for Damir's health, no one answered, and she had to demonstrate alone.
"Here I am in the hospital and no one came, that's why we are where we are, because when the time comes, there are many likes and hearts, but no one steps up. There is more fear than money here, which is why we have to endure whatever comes our way," the protester noted in the comments section.
So far, it has not been confirmed whether the woman faced reprisals for her protest, given the restrictive nature of the Cuban government regarding public demonstrations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the case of the Cuban boy Damir Ortiz Ramírez
Why did a woman protest in front of the Pediatric Hospital in Havana?
The woman protested demanding medical attention for Damir Ortiz Ramírez, a 10-year-old boy suffering from type 1 neurofibromatosis and other serious conditions. The demonstrator insisted that the child be allowed to receive specialized treatment in the United States, as there are no necessary resources for his proper care in Cuba.
What is the current health status of Damir Ortiz?
Damir is in critical condition in the intensive care unit of the hospital, with kidney damage and severe eye inflammation. Additionally, he has a tumor in his right eye and is being investigated for possible leukemia.
Why does the Ministry of Public Health of Cuba deny Damir's transfer to the United States?
The Ministry of Public Health of Cuba (MINSAP) argues that the country has the necessary resources to treat Damir and that a transfer could worsen his health condition. However, the family and activists report a lack of resources and capacity within the Cuban system to adequately address his condition.
What actions are being taken to help Damir?
Fundraising campaigns have been organized, and international pressure is being requested so that the child can receive the necessary treatment in the United States. A hospital in Miami has already agreed to treat him, but a letter of authorization from MINSAP is needed to obtain the humanitarian visa.
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