Carlos Camilo experiences fatherhood marked by sacrifice, emigration, and the daily struggle for his son's life. From Chile, where he has been residing for five months, this Cuban father shared a message that resonates deeply within the migrant community, especially among those who have had to leave their country out of love and necessity.
“Today marks 5 months since I arrived in this country, Chile. A mix of joy and sadness overtakes me every time we complete another month,” he wrote on Facebook.
"It hurts to understand that everything here could be so much better there, but it can't be."
Carlos did not emigrate for personal dreams or material ambitions. He did it for Daniel, his son, who was diagnosed with a rare neurodegenerative disease called atypical neuronal ceroidal lipofuscinosis type 2, which in most cases limits life expectancy to between 10 and 15 years. Daniel is already 20.
The story of both was told in an emotional report by Cuban television in 2022, which showcased the daily lives of the father and son walking the streets of Arroyo Arenas, in Havana.
The family then had to decide who would take on the permanent care that the young man required.
Carlos resigned from his job in the tourism sector to fully dedicate himself to his son, while the mother, with a degree in microbiology, continued her employment at the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology.
"I understood that it was worth saving my professional career and then dedicating myself to taking care of Daniel... we have been together for four years now, we are one: my baby and I," Carlos said with naturalness and pride.
The connection between the two was described by journalists as a unique complicity, in which Carlos became the only one capable of understanding his son's language, gestures, and sensitivity. He accompanied him in everything: on walks, in music (even though they disagreed on reggaeton), and in silence.
But the deterioration of the Cuban healthcare system, the material shortages, and the need to seek better conditions for his son drove this father to make a new and difficult decision: to emigrate.
From the south of Chile, where they have been welcomed with respect and empathy, Carlos expresses gratitude for the solidarity of his Cuban friends and the new ones he has met in the southern country.
And although nostalgia weighs heavily, the reason for his departure remains the same: "the little boss," as he affectionately calls Daniel.
"That is the one who deserves any sacrifice, even the sacrifice of being so far away. We are doing well, staying positive, and focused on improving his health," she concluded.
On this Father's Day, his story stands out not only as an example of dedication and paternal love but also as a testimony to the harsh reality faced by many Cubans forced to separate from what they cherish in order to continue fighting.
Stories like those of Carlos Camilo resonate with that of another Cuban father who, compelled to sign immigration documents to provide a better future for his child, emphasized through tears that he made the decision without regrets.
An act that symbolizes one of the most heartbreaking decisions: to give up all legal acknowledgment of his paternity so that his son could have options beyond the island.
This same father, at another moment in his story, expressed his love through a farewell poem addressed to his little one, with the phrase “I want you to never fade away.”
A gesture that not only portrays suffering but also the immense tenderness with which many parents confront the forced separation due to survival reasons.
Another revealing testimony is that of a Cuban migrant who was crossing the Darién jungle when his daughter was born. The father was unable to be present for one of the most significant moments of his life, but his journey symbolizes the commitment of so many men who risk everything to provide a different future for their children, even if it means missing their first cry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Emigration in Search of Better Living Conditions
Why did Carlos Camilo emigrate from Cuba to Chile?
Carlos Camilo emigrated from Cuba to Chile to seek better living conditions for his son Daniel, who suffers from a rare neurodegenerative disease called atypical neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 2. The deterioration of the Cuban healthcare system and material shortages were key factors in his decision to emigrate.
What challenges do Cubans face when emigrating in search of medical treatment?
Cubans who emigrate in search of medical treatment face multiple challenges, such as the lack of resources in their home country and the need to find specialized care abroad. Cases like that of Dailén, who left Cuba to treat multiple illnesses, or Caleb, a baby who needs a medical device not available in Cuba, reflect the insufficiency of the Cuban healthcare system to address complex conditions.
How does family separation affect Cubans who emigrate?
Family separation is one of the most painful aspects of emigration for Cubans. Families are forced to part ways, often for years, in search of a better future. Stories like that of Thalya, who reunited with her daughter after two years, or Yilian, who has not seen her children in three years, illustrate the emotional impact of these separations.
What role does solidarity play in supporting Cuban migrants?
Solidarity is a key element in supporting Cuban migrants. Support networks, both inside and outside of Cuba, are essential for facilitating immigration and accessing medical treatment. Initiatives such as fundraising campaigns and the backing of communities and activists exemplify the importance of solidarity in these contexts.
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