Related videos:
The young Cuban athlete Marisleisys Duarthe Morell, who became the youth world champion in javelin throw, is facing a critical health situation and urgently needs help to continue fighting against a degenerative disease that has put her life at risk.
The call was made this Monday on Facebook by Samuel Fabbri, who has been closely following Marita's evolution — as her close ones know her — and urged athletes, institutions, friends, and citizens to show solidarity and support her during this particularly difficult time.
Fabbri recalled that Duarthe, who hails from Santiago de Cuba, was a promising talent in Cuban athletics, with exceptional abilities to follow in the footsteps of figures like María Caridad Colón.
Duarthe suffers from systemic scleroderma, a degenerative disease that initially affected his skin and muscles, and now poses a threat to vital organs, causing him constant and unbearable pain.
The athlete, who is currently 24 years old and about to turn 25, was diagnosed at the age of 18, and has since lived with physical limitations, institutional neglect, and a healthcare system that has been unable to meet all her needs.
According to Fabbri, the young woman urgently needs medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories from the NSAID group, disinfectants, bandages, food, and financial support.
His condition has worsened in recent weeks, and his situation is described as "an endless struggle."
“We all need to contribute our bit. Marita deserves all our support,” wrote Fabbri, who also shared her contact number for those who wish to help: +53 55386090 (also available on WhatsApp).
Although regrettable, the situation of institutional neglect is not new. In September 2022, the young athlete was facing the regime's neglect, despite her sporting achievements at the international level.
At that time, Duarthe herself reported that she was not receiving the necessary medications or the institutional support that her situation required.
Today, her story is once again shaking up social media, not only because of the plight of a former Cuban champion but also due to the cries of those urging that she not be left alone in this unequal battle.
Just a few days before her 25th birthday, family and friends are calling for solidarity to be transformed into concrete action to help save her life.
Frequently asked questions about the situation of Cuban athlete Marisleisys Duarthe Morell
What illness does Marisleisys Duarthe Morell have?
Marisleisys Duarthe Morell suffers from systemic scleroderma, a degenerative disease that affects her skin, muscles, and vital organs, causing her constant and unbearable pain.
What kind of assistance does the Cuban athlete Marisleisys Duarthe Morell need?
Marisleisys needs medications such as antibiotics, NSAIDs or anti-inflammatory drugs, disinfectants, bandages, food, and financial support due to the lack of resources and adequate medical care in Cuba.
How has institutional abandonment manifested in the case of Marisleisys Duarthe Morell?
Marisleisys has faced institutional neglect and a healthcare system that does not meet her needs, reflecting a recurring situation in Cuba where athletes and citizens do not receive the necessary support from the government.
How can we help Marisleisys Duarthe Morell in her current situation?
To help Marisleisys, you can contact Samuel Fabbri at the number +53 55386090, also available on WhatsApp, to coordinate any kind of support or collaboration to improve her situation.
Filed under: