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Cubans on the island mobilized this Tuesday to donate A+ blood in support of the transfer to the United States of Damir Ortiz Ramírez, a 10-year-old boy battling type 1 neurofibromatosis and acute leukemia.
In response to an urgent request for platelet donations to stabilize the young patient before traveling via air ambulance to Miami, citizens from various parts of Cuba came to donate at the Blood Bank in Havana, specifically at the center located at the intersection of 23rd and 2nd streets in Vedado.
The campaign was sparked by a video posted by activist Idelisa Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia and a live broadcast, in which it was reported that the Institute of Hematology and Immunology had reported a shortage of A+ blood for the treatment of Damir.
In response to this situation, the community acted quickly, and thanks to the collaboration of neighbors and the intervention of Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano Sánchez, president of the Cuban Free Medical Guild, an operation was organized to collect donations.
However, the Blood Bank initially refused to process the donations, claiming there were no snacks or technicians available. After pressure from those present, who began to share the situation on social media, the institution's directors announced that blood extractions would take place, reported activist Yamilka Laffita, known as Lara Crofs on Facebook.
"Thank you for the bravery of staying there despite the consequences," he expressed.
This act of solidarity is part of a chain of efforts that have enabled Damir's family to meet the requirements for his transfer to the United States, where he will receive specialized treatment.
In just a few hours, Cubans on the island and abroad raised over $45,000 to fund the air ambulance that will transport the child and his mother, Eliannis Ramírez, to Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami. On Monday, someone also offered a backup account of $300,000 to meet the plane's requirements.
Recently, the U.S. Embassy in Cuba approved the humanitarian visa that will allow the child to receive urgent medical care abroad. The campaign continues to receive support, and Cubans are showing their unity in times of crisis.
"Stand up, everyone! Solidarity moves us. Let's keep fighting until Damir is well," the activist concluded in her message, urging Cubans to remain steadfast in their support.
Frequently Asked Questions about the case of the Cuban child Damir Ortiz
Why was a blood donation campaign necessary for Damir Ortiz?
The blood donation campaign was necessary to stabilize the health of Damir Ortiz before his transfer to the United States. The boy, who suffers from type 1 neurofibromatosis and acute leukemia, required type A+ blood to receive treatment prior to his air ambulance trip to Miami.
How was the financing for Damir's transfer to the United States secured?
The Cuban community both on the island and abroad quickly mobilized to raise funds through donations, managing to gather over 45,000 dollars in record time. This money allowed for the financing of the air ambulance service needed to transport Damir and his mother to Miami, where the child will receive specialized medical treatment. The amount exceeded the 41,800 dollars needed for the transfer.
What obstacles did Damir's family face in obtaining the humanitarian visa?
The family of Damir faced multiple bureaucratic obstacles, primarily the refusal of the Ministry of Public Health of Cuba (MINSAP) to provide the necessary documentation for the visa. Although their humanitarian visa was initially denied, the U.S. Embassy in Cuba eventually granted the permission after receiving the required documentation.
What medical complications affect Damir Ortiz?
Damir Ortiz suffers from type 1 neurofibromatosis, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, and acute leukemia. These conditions have worsened his health, exacerbated by the lack of resources and adequate treatments in Cuba. His fragile health requires specialized medical attention that is not available on the island.
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