Related videos:
A Canadian citizen identified as Mark Lane publicly expressed his gratitude to a Cuban doctor who cared for his mother during a health emergency that occurred in Matanzas two years ago.
The professional, as he recounted, treated her with great humanity despite the material shortcomings of the Cuban healthcare system.
The story was published this Saturday in the Facebook group “City of Matanzas in Photos,” where Lane shared an image of the doctor and asked, “Does anyone know or recognize this doctor? Is he an orthopedic surgeon in Matanzas? I am trying to contact him.”
In the comments section, several internet users identified him as Alexis Cruz Vinageras, a highly respected orthopedics specialist in the province.
Mark Lane recounted that the doctor treated his mother for a wrist fracture with limited resources, but with a high level of professional dedication.
"He was an incredible doctor: communicative, empathetic, innovative, and professional in every aspect. My mother is the patient in the photo above," he wrote.
He also added, "I'm returning to Cuba next week and I have some supplies for him."
Lane stated that his family was deeply impacted by the care they received, and that his desire to reunite with the doctor stems from a moral obligation: "My family and I owe him for his empathy, kindness, and dedication as a physician."
The comments on the post unanimously praised Dr. Cruz Vinageras, not only for his professional ability but also for his human qualities.
Maitte Díaz wrote that she has known him since he was a child and that he has always been considerate, emphasizing that he comes from a humble and admirable family.
Annette Hoyos, who was his teacher, described him as an exceptional student and a wonderful person.
Chely Morales assured that she works without set hours and referred to him as an "excellent orthopedic surgeon," while Manuel Martínez recalled that he saved his cousin after a serious accident.
Orel Peres Rodrigues shared a powerful testimony: after a complete fracture of the ulna and radius, he was operated on by Alexis and his team, and he managed to regain use of his arm despite the minimal hopes for recovery.
"I wish you all the blessings of this world. May God always be with you," she wrote.
The publication, beyond expressing gratitude from a foreigner, highlights the everyday sacrifices of Cuban doctors who work with minimal resources in a country where the government has acknowledged the collapse of its hospitals, as well as how professionalism can leave a mark that transcends borders.
Unfortunately, given the collapse of the healthcare system in Cuba, happy endings like the one involving the doctor from Matanzas who assisted the mother of a Canadian citizen are becoming increasingly rare.
The structural crisis has been highlighted by numerous Cuban professionals who, after leaving the country, have described from abroad the conditions of misery, neglect, and exploitation.
A physician trained in Spain debunked the myth of the so-called “medical powerhouse”, denouncing meager salaries, crumbling hospitals, and missions that turn doctors into economic instruments of the regime.
These testimonies align with the experiences of many Cubans in exile. A young refugee in Peru stated that Cubans “pay for health care with repression, lack of freedom, and misery”, and criticized the narrative that the government promotes abroad to conceal the true hospital situation.
In his account, he recalled that in Cuba he did not receive basic vaccinations for years and denounced the inhumane conditions under which many doctors are forced to work.
Also from the United States, Dr. Manuel Guerra described the Cuban healthcare system as “a dying organism”, plagued by misery, a shortage of medications, and the exodus of professionals.
According to his explanation, more than 13,000 doctors left the system in just one year, leaving empty halls and unattended patients, while the regime insists on exporting medical brigades as diplomatic propaganda.
The situation on the island is equally alarming. A Cuban mother publicly denounced that there were no doctors, no reagents, and no medications to care for her sick child in Cárdenas, Matanzas.
Despite visiting hospitals and clinics, she was forced to return home with a feverish teenager because there wasn't even a pain reliever available. Her testimony contradicts the official reports that state that "everything is guaranteed."
Frequently asked questions about the healthcare system in Cuba and the history of the Cuban doctor
Who is the Cuban doctor who helped Mark Lane's mother in Matanzas?
The Cuban doctor is Alexis Cruz Vinageras, a highly respected orthopedic specialist in the province of Matanzas, who treated Mark Lane's mother with great humanity and professionalism despite the material shortages of the Cuban healthcare system.
What is the current situation of the health system in Cuba?
The healthcare system in Cuba is facing a serious crisis of resources and infrastructure. Hospitals lack basic supplies like syringes and medications, and the facilities are deteriorating. Despite the official propaganda that defends public health as an "achievement" of the system, the reality reveals endless waiting lists and dysfunctional equipment.
How does the lack of medical supplies affect patients in Cuba?
The shortage of medical supplies in Cuba has a devastating impact on patients, who often must bring their own materials for basic procedures. This has led to extreme situations, such as patients not receiving necessary treatments on time, putting their lives at risk.
How is the quality of Cuban doctors perceived internationally?
Internationally, Cuban doctors are highly valued for their training and dedication, but this perception contrasts with the precarious conditions under which they must work. Despite the limitations of the Cuban healthcare system, doctors demonstrate great commitment and professionalism.
Filed under: