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On October 9, young Cuban Eduardo Sotomayor, originally from Palmarito de Cauto, Santiago de Cuba, passed away in Austin, Texas.
His family on the island is seeking to raise funds to repatriate the body and be able to say goodbye in his homeland.
The news was initially reported by the portal La Tijera News, which did not specify the causes of death.
Nevertheless, in the comments, a woman who identified herself as a cousin of the deceased confirmed that the young man allegedly took his own life, something that other users also mentioned.
The publication of La Tijera included a Zelle number (502-701-6076, in the name of Midalsy Rodríguez Rico) for those who wish to contribute, with the instruction to write the word “Family” in the message.
A young man beloved by all
Dozens of people who knew Eduardo have described him as a good, cheerful, and hardworking young man.
Another former colleague recalled that he worked at a McDonald’s, where he helped his coworkers because he spoke English and often worked at the drive-thru.
"He was always ready to lend a hand", one of them wrote.
Eduardo had built a new life in Texas, where he had a daughter with a coworker. According to that same source, they were both in love and shared future plans.
The case has sparked a wave of pain and reflection on social media. Many mourned the fact that a young person with so many dreams and responsibilities chose to end his life.
"Sometimes one doesn’t see the signs until it’s too late," commented a user. Others highlighted the emotional pressure that Cuban migrants experience.
At the same time, several users discussed the high cost of repatriating a body from the United States to Cuba, which can exceed $20,000, compared to the option of cremation.
Still, many insist that Eduardo must rest in his homeland. "The poor also have the right to a decent burial," stated an internet user.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Repatriation of Bodies of Cubans Abroad
What are the challenges of repatriating the bodies of Cubans from abroad?
Repatriating bodies from abroad can be a very costly and complicated process, especially for families with limited resources. The cost of repatriation can exceed 20,000 dollars, forcing many families to resort to fundraising campaigns. Furthermore, the lack of support from Cuban embassies and consulates further complicates the process, leading some families to opt for cremation as a more viable alternative.
How does emotional pressure affect Cuban migrants abroad?
The emotional pressure on Cuban migrants is significant, as they face the challenge of adapting to a new environment while also providing support to their families in Cuba. These challenges can lead to extreme stress situations, such as the need to send money to their families, the difficulty of finding stable jobs, and emotional isolation. In some cases, this has led to tragic decisions, such as suicide, due to the lack of support and understanding.
Why is it important to repatriate deceased Cubans to their homeland?
Repatriating deceased Cubans is important because it allows for a dignified burial in their homeland, thus fulfilling the wishes of both the family and the deceased. This is particularly significant for families who wish to say goodbye properly to their loved ones and honor their cultural traditions, which can provide them with comfort and emotional closure during times of mourning.
What alternatives exist for Cuban families who cannot afford repatriation?
When families cannot afford repatriation, they often turn to cremation as a more economical alternative. Cremation allows the ashes to be sent to Cuba at a lower cost, although it does not provide the same emotional closure as a burial in the homeland. However, for many families, it is the only viable option given their financial constraints.
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