Emotional: Center for people with disabilities in Santiago de Cuba celebrates the 15th birthday of a resident

The Centro América Labadí Arce, for individuals with intellectual disabilities, celebrated the 15th birthday of Virgen María with a waltz, candles, and a collective birthday party that brought together residents, families, and staff in an atmosphere of love and joy.

They celebrate 15 years of a young woman from Santiago with intellectual disabilityPhoto © Facebook / General Directorate of Health Santiago de Cuba

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The América Labadí Arce Psychopedagogical Medical Center in Santiago de Cuba celebrated the 15th birthday of Virgen María, one of its residents since 2017, with a special event that brought together family members, staff, and colleagues from the institution.

The information was recently shared on Facebook by the General Directorate of Health of Santiago de Cuba, which highlighted the participation of artists, clowns, and poets in the event, filled with surprises and gifts for the young honoree, who resides at this center for individuals with severe and profound intellectual disabilities.

Facebook Capture / General Directorate of Health Santiago de Cuba

During the celebration, traditions such as the waltz and the lighting of candles were present, with the Virgin Mary accompanied by her parents, her guardian, and the center's staff.

The occasion also served to share moments of joy with the other residents.

The celebration included a collective birthday where other inmates, semi-internal members, and children from the community participated, in an environment described as a "warm rainbow" of emotions, love, and brotherhood.

Founded in 1980, the Centro América Labadí Arce welcomes individuals with severe and profound intellectual disabilities and develops a multidisciplinary program of educational, cultural, sports, and recreational activities aimed at strengthening the biopsychosocial development of children, young people, and adults.

The celebration of Virgen María's 15th anniversary at the América Labadí Arce Psychopedagogical Medical Center in Santiago de Cuba is part of a tradition that, despite the crisis, continues to hold a special place in Cuban community life.

This type of celebration has also been replicated in other spaces. Recently, a similar atmosphere was experienced in Santiago de Cuba, where a teenager with cancer celebrated her 15th birthday surrounded by family, friends, and healthcare professionals, in an event that highlighted the importance of inclusion and social support.

In the military sphere, and for propaganda purposes to humanize future repressive forces, collective celebrations have also taken place. In Santiago de Cuba, the "camilitos" organized a 15th birthday party for several cadets, where tradition and military discipline intertwined in an event rich in symbolism.

Similarly, in Bayamo, a military school celebrated the 15th anniversary of its female students, in an attempt by the regime to present the more "noble" side of those who will, tomorrow, suppress the people.

Frequently asked questions about the center for people with disabilities in Santiago de Cuba

What is the América Labadí Arce Psychopedagogical Medical Center?

The Centro América Labadí Arce is an institution in Santiago de Cuba that welcomes individuals with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1980, it develops a multidisciplinary program of activities to strengthen the biopsychosocial development of its residents.

How did they celebrate Virgen María's 15th anniversary in the center?

The celebration of Virgen María's 15th anniversary at the Centro América Labadí Arce included the participation of family members, staff, and colleagues from the institution, as well as artists, clowns, and poets. Traditional activities such as the waltz and the lighting of candles were held, in an atmosphere of love and brotherhood.

What kind of activities are conducted at the Centro América Labadí Arce?

The América Labadí Arce Center carries out educational, cultural, sports, and recreational activities aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents. These activities are designed to strengthen the biopsychosocial development of children, youth, and adults with intellectual disabilities.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.