Perla, an 87-year-old Cuban grandmother who recently arrived in Tenerife, went viral on social media and has emotionally touched many on Spanish television. What is part of everyday life for some, like seeing ice cream and sweets in a supermarket, for her is a return to life, to the things she hasn't seen in over fifty years due to the shortages and hardships that exist in Cuba.
The Hoy en Día program from Canal Sur arrived with its host and grandson, and even the presenters of the show couldn't hide their tears of emotion upon meeting Perla and hearing her story of resilience and personal triumph.
The videos of Perla that have gone viral on TikTok are a testament to her new life. Her reaction upon seeing an ice cream cone, which reminds her of her childhood, the pizzas of different sizes in a supermarket, or the variety of candies have moved many to tears, as there are thousands in Cuba who continue to live in misery and hunger, unable to experience this other life that exists beyond the borders of the island.
“I have been to Cuba four times and the Cuban people are the strongest, most resilient, most determined people I have ever known in my life”, acknowledges one of the presenters, and Perla does not hesitate to agree.
To the question of how she is doing, she replies with a smile: “I’m doing really well since I’ve been here, I feel great in terms of health, mood, and everything”. Perla assures that she remembers the family members she has left in Cuba and affirms that she doesn't forget anyone, not even her neighbors.
“Are you going to stay with us, Perla?” the host asks, and again the grandmother adds with a smile: “I think so because I feel very good here.”
Cuba misses its family, and what he likes most about Spain is a very difficult question: “I have liked everything here, I can't choose anything.”
Perla confesses that she never imagined that "an insignificant seamstress from times past" could receive so much affection from people in Spain: "I feel like I've been here my whole life".
Although she became a widow at a young age, she managed to raise her three daughters through hard work and sacrifice; she built her humble home in Havana with her own hands and remembers how she would ask her daughters to put in their schoolbags everything they saw on the street that could be useful for construction, from a nail to a piece of brick.
Frequently asked questions about the story of Perla, the Cuban grandmother in Spain
Who is Perla, the Cuban grandmother who went viral in Spain?
Perla is a Cuban grandmother who is 87 years old and has gone viral on social media after her arrival in Spain, where she was excited to discover foods and products she hadn't seen in decades due to shortages in Cuba.
Why has Perla's story touched so many people?
The story of Perla has touched many people because it represents the harsh reality of scarcity in Cuba and shows how something as ordinary as a supermarket can be a whole new world for those who have lived under the Cuban socialist regime. Her reaction of wonder and joy upon seeing ice cream and pizza for the first time in a long time has resonated with many.
What has been the most striking for Perla since her arrival in Spain?
For Perla, the most striking aspect of her arrival in Spain has been the variety of food available in the supermarkets. Her reaction upon seeing ice creams, pizzas, and sweets—products she hadn’t seen in years—has been one of the most emotional moments of her experience.
Why is Perla's story an implicit condemnation of the situation in Cuba?
The story of Perla serves as an implicit denunciation as it highlights the limitations and shortages experienced in Cuba, where basic products are unattainable for many. Her emotion upon seeing common products in other countries underscores the stark contrast with the reality of the island.
How has Perla reacted to her new life in Spain?
Perla has reacted with great enthusiasm to her new life in Spain, expressing that she feels very well in health and spirit. She has shared her joy in being in a place where she can enjoy things that were impossible to obtain in Cuba.
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