In a recently shared video, activists Diasniurka Salcedo, Aylín Díaz, and Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano recount the difficult journey that allowed for the transfer of Damir from a hospital in Havana, where no solutions could be found for his serious health condition, to Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami. The boy, who arrived in Florida on a medical plane, was in critical condition due to a lack of specialized care on the island.
Diasniurka Salcedo held the Cuban government accountable for the serious condition of Damir, denouncing that the regime prevented the child from receiving treatment abroad for far too long. According to the activist, if the Cuban authorities had allowed for his transfer sooner, his health situation would have been less alarming. "It is appalling to see how a dictatorship has essentially allowed a child to die just to protect its healthcare system. Damir arrived in this country by miracle," she lamented.
The team also detailed the challenges they faced in managing the humanitarian visa for Damir and his mother at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, as well as the obstacles they overcame to hire the aircraft that ultimately transported him to Miami. It was impossible for him to travel on a commercial flight due to his health condition, as he required medical equipment on board and specialized assistance at all times. Despite the bureaucratic and financial challenges, they managed to coordinate the trip that today gives Damir a new opportunity for life.
Frequently asked questions about Damir's transfer from Cuba to the U.S.
Why was it necessary to transfer Damir to the United States?
Damir was transferred to the United States because he could not receive the specialized treatment he needed for his serious health issues in Cuba. The boy suffers from type 1 neurofibromatosis, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, and acute leukemia, conditions that required urgent and specialized attention that was not available on the island.
What obstacles did Damir face to obtain the humanitarian visa to the U.S.?
The process of obtaining the humanitarian visa for Damir was fraught with complications, primarily due to the refusal of the Cuban Ministry of Public Health to provide the necessary documentation. This lack of initial documentation led the U.S. Embassy in Havana to deny the visa initially. However, after an intense campaign by activists and the Cuban community, the visa was finally obtained.
How did the Cuban community manage to finance Damir's relocation?
The Cuban community, both on and off the island, mobilized to raise funds through various platforms and direct donations. More than $45,848 was raised to cover the costs of Damir's air ambulance transfer to the United States. This swift and effective fundraising campaign was crucial in saving the child's life.
What has been the reaction of Damir's mother and the activists following his arrival in Miami?
The mother of Damir, Eliannis Ramírez, expressed deep gratitude to everyone who helped ensure her son could receive medical attention in Miami. She also took the opportunity to criticize the Cuban regime, which she holds responsible for the difficulties faced during the process. Activists expressed joy and satisfaction for having achieved this important step in the fight for Damir's life.
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