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Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano Sánchez, president of the Cuban Free Medical Guild, raised concerns this Sunday about the critical health condition of Geobel Damir Ortiz Ramírez, who remains hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Hematology Institute.
Ruano explained on Facebook that Damir, diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 and with a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, has been classified as a severe and unstable patient after experiencing a night of complications.
In the last few hours, there was a new drop in platelets and hemoglobin, as well as bleeding from the injury on the side of his face and in the right eye.
In light of this situation, the specialists proceeded to administer the antifungal Amphotericin B and conducted a new transfusion of three units of platelets, plasma, and red blood cells, a procedure that continued throughout the morning of this Sunday, emphasized the physician.
Despite the seriousness of the clinical picture, a chest X-ray indicated a slight respiratory improvement, suggesting a good response to antibiotic treatment, according to Dr. Raúl, the intensivist.
Additionally, an improvement in diuresis has been reported. Damir remains afebrile, conscious, and cooperative during medical procedures.
The latest lab results show that hemoglobin is at 7.4, platelets at 16,000, and leukocytes at 3,000.
After completing the transfusions, new blood tests are expected to be conducted to assess the child's progress, who remains in significant clinical-hematological instability.
In recent months, Damir's health situation worsened with a diagnosis of acute leukemia, further complicating his fragile health.
The United States Embassy in Cuba reported last February that it would continue the process of granting a humanitarian visa to the Cuban child Damir.
Activist Diasniurka Salcedo, one of the individuals who has been following this case, confirmed that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) contacted Damir's godmother to request additional documents, which represents hope for continuing the visa process.
Frequently Asked Questions about the case of the Cuban boy Damir Ortiz Ramírez
What is the current health status of the child Damir Ortiz Ramírez?
Damir is in critical and unstable condition, admitted to the intensive care unit of the Hematology Institute. He has been diagnosed with type 1 neurofibromatosis, a plexiform neurofibroma in the right eye, and acute leukemia. He has experienced complications such as a drop in platelets and hemoglobin, facial bleeding, and respiratory issues. Although there has been slight improvement in his breathing, his situation remains critical.
Why hasn't Damir been able to travel to the United States for treatment?
Damir has not been able to travel to the United States due to the refusal of the Ministry of Public Health of Cuba (MINSAP) to issue the necessary documentation for a humanitarian visa. MINSAP maintains that Cuba has the resources needed to treat Damir, although activists and his mother have reported a lack of adequate treatments on the island. The absence of this documentation has been a significant obstacle in the visa process, leading to rejections by the U.S. embassy.
What actions are being taken to help Damir?
Multiple efforts have been made to assist Damir, including a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe organized by activists like Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia. The campaign aims to raise $40,000 to cover medical expenses and travel to a hospital in Miami that has agreed to treat Damir. Demonstrations have also been held, and international support has been sought to advocate for the necessary humanitarian visa.
What has been the Cuban government's response to the case of Damir?
The Cuban government has used Damir's case as an example of its healthcare system, claiming that he has received specialized medical attention and access to advanced technology. However, it has denied his transfer abroad, arguing that it could worsen his condition. This stance has been criticized by activists and family members who denounce the lack of resources and appropriate treatments on the island.
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