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The desperate search for Mery, an elderly woman with diabetes and memory loss who had been missing for several days in the capital, ended in a tragic outcome.
This Sunday it was confirmed that she was found dead under the Bacuranao bridge in Havana, after several days of uncertainty for her family.
The news was shared in the group Facebook "alamar la zona" by her younger granddaughter, Gaby Mena, who led the search campaign for days and spread photographs of the missing person on social media.
In a heartfelt message, he thanked the collective effort:
"With deep sadness and sorrow, we inform the community that Mery, who had been missing since September 4, has been found deceased (...) We sincerely thank everyone who helped and provided their support during this difficult search process. Now more than ever, we stand with the family in their grief and ask for respect and privacy during this trying time," he stated.
The confirmation of the elderly woman's death occurred on Saturday, when several neighbors found her body and tried to help her, although there was nothing that could be done.
"I am very grateful to the boys who found her and helped her on behalf of my entire family. A thousand thanks for doing everything possible to try to save her," expressed Gaby.
So far, the exact circumstances of the death have not been revealed, nor whether it was an accident, a natural outcome, or if there was any violent occurrence.
The young woman also shared some intimate words for her grandmother: "Grandma, fly high now; you'll be my angel and my favorite little star when I look at the sky. You were incredible."
A search marked by desperation
Mery's disappearance was initially reported on September 4, when Gaby Mena alerted that her grandmother had left home in Alamar and had not returned.
Immediately, family members and neighbors began to share her image and personal information on social media, indicating that she was diabetic, relied on medication, and suffered from memory loss.
The family wasted no time; that same day, they confirmed that they had already informed the police and requested urgent help: "We are very desperate. Anyone who can help, please."
The mobilization on social media was key to keeping the alert, but during these days, there was no information about their whereabouts.
Pain and questions
The victim’s niece, Yadira Simpson, residing in Hialeah, expressed her sorrow on social media and highlighted the efforts of the elderly woman's daughter: "That lady was being cared for and looked after by the best daughter in the world. Unfortunately, that illness causes those who suffer from it to behave like children, without understanding danger."
The case has once again highlighted the fragility of the search and response mechanisms in Cuba regarding the disappearances of vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly with dementia or chronic illnesses.
In practice, it is families and communities that are forced to spread alerts in Facebook and WhatsApp groups, without having an official system that ensures quick and effective localization.
The tragedy of Mery reflects, once again, how the institutional void and the sluggishness of the authorities force families to confront anguish and uncertainty alone, clinging to civic solidarity as their only tool in the attempt to save lives.
While the family requests privacy during their mourning, neighbors and acquaintances stress the need for clear and effective protocols for searching for the missing in Cuba, where every hour can be crucial in preventing fatal outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Disappearances of Elderly People in Cuba
What was the outcome of Mery's disappearance in Havana?
Mery was found dead under the Bacuranao bridge in Havana after nearly a week of intense searching by her family and the community. Although the family expressed gratitude for the collective effort, the case has raised questions about the effectiveness of search mechanisms in Cuba.
What challenges does Cuba face in the search for missing persons?
Cuba lacks an efficient official system for the quick and effective locating of missing persons, particularly the elderly or individuals with mental illnesses. The majority of searches depend on the initiative of families and civic solidarity, who use social media to alert and mobilize the community.
How has the Cuban community responded to these cases of disappearance?
The Cuban community has displayed solidarity and has actively participated in the search for missing persons, using platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp to spread alerts and coordinate efforts. This spirit of collaboration has been crucial for maintaining hope and providing resources in the absence of an effective state system.
Are there any recent cases of disappearances in Cuba?
Yes, there are several recent cases, such as that of an 88-year-old woman found with signs of violence, and that of José Verdecia, who has been missing for weeks. These incidents reflect a troubling pattern of disappearances in the country, exacerbated by the lack of adequate institutional responses.
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