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Mila Ortiz, mother of the Cuban girl Amanda Lemus Ortiz, expressed her deep gratitude to the activist Yamilka Lafita (Lara Crofs on Facebook) for her support in the process that allowed her daughter’s life to be saved in Spain.
Through an emotional message on social media, Ortiz also clarified details about the fundraising, in response to criticism and questions directed at Lafita in recent days.
Ortiz emphasized that the money raised through the GoFundMe campaign was used exclusively to cover travel and accommodation expenses in Spain, as medical care was and continues to be free.
He explained that, as previously announced, he received half of the funds raised upon his arrival in Spain, while the other half was allocated to assist other cases of children in similar situations.
"I received the money without any problems, and it is what we have been using until now. When the cash we brought from Cuba ran out, it was also a result of the donations in national currency (MN) and freely convertible currency (MLC), which were exchanged for euros," Ortiz detailed.
He assured that throughout the entire process there was absolute transparency and that Lafita informed him daily about the donations received. "There were never any problems, not a single peso was missing," he stated.
Mila Ortiz expressed regret that some individuals are attempting to discredit Lafita's work following her intensive effort to save another child, Damir Ortiz; and emphasized that the activist devoted her time and emotional stability to the cause of Amanda without asking for anything in return.
"I do not like that ill-intentioned people want to harm a woman who gave her physical and emotional stability in exchange for making my daughter live," wrote Mila Ortiz.
He also noted that, beyond being an activist, Lafita became part of their family. “Amanda lived, and the family grew. We always talk because the little one is her niece, and I gained a sister.”
Finally, Ortiz reiterated his gratitude to all the people who contributed to saving his daughter's life and concluded his message with an emotional statement: “Amanda lives thanks to everyone who, like her [Lafita], fought for that. We will never forget that.”
On March 15th, a year passed since Amanda Lemus Ortiz underwent a liver transplant at the La Paz University Hospital in Madrid, a procedure that marked the beginning of a new chapter for the little girl.
Thanks to a solidarity campaign and the support of activists, Amanda received a humanitarian visa and was able to travel to Spain in March 2024, in critical condition due to the lack of medical care in Cuba.
A year later, he has shown a remarkable recovery, overcoming several surgical interventions and achieving significant progress in his development.
Amanda's story has been a symbol of hope for thousands of Cubans both on and off the island, as this case propelled by Lara Crofs demonstrated the strength of Cuban civil society within and beyond the island.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Case of Amanda Lemus Ortiz and Her Recovery in Spain
What has the recovery process been like for Amanda after her liver transplant in Spain?
Amanda's recovery process has been complicated but progressive. Following her liver transplant in March 2024, Amanda has shown significant improvement, although she has not been without setbacks and complications. Over the months, she has reached important milestones in her recovery, such as the removal of IVs and catheters, and she is now able to sit up on her own and babble a few words.
What was the role of activist Yamilka Lafita in Amanda's treatment?
Yamilka Lafita, known on social media as Lara Crofs, was instrumental in supporting and promoting Amanda's case. Lafita coordinated the fundraising campaign to cover Amanda's travel and stay in Spain, as well as providing constant emotional support to the family. She served as a communication bridge between donors and the family, ensuring transparency in the use of the raised funds.
What challenges did Amanda face in Cuba before moving to Spain?
Amanda faced serious limitations in Cuba due to the lack of medical resources needed for the urgent liver transplant. Her health deteriorated significantly without receiving the necessary treatment, as she was practically abandoned by the Cuban healthcare system. This sparked an international campaign to raise funds and facilitate her transfer to Spain, where she was finally able to receive the appropriate care.
How has international solidarity influenced Amanda's case?
International solidarity has been crucial in saving Amanda's life. Thanks to donations and the support of activists and the Cuban community abroad, Amanda's treatment in Spain was successfully funded. This mobilization demonstrated the power of civil unity and the importance of international aid in overcoming the shortcomings of the Cuban healthcare system in critical cases.
What message has Amanda's mother given about the support received?
Mila Ortiz, mother of Amanda, expressed her deep gratitude for the support received. She especially thanked the activist Yamilka Lafita for her dedication and highlighted the importance of transparency in the management of the funds raised. Ortiz stated that the solidarity received has been vital for her daughter's recovery, emphasizing that Amanda is alive thanks to all those who fought for her cause.
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