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In the midst of the physical adversities she faces daily, Mailén Díaz Almaguer, the only survivor of the tragic plane crash that occurred in Havana in May 2018, has shared a new and touching reflection on her social media.
Her message, published on Facebook, is not only a testament to personal faith but also a call for the collective hope of a country that, as she puts it, "is falling apart."
“Today, while I was praying and calling out to God, not feeling very well due to some health issues that I frequently suffer from, I was also praying for Cuba,” wrote Mailén, hinting at a deep connection between her individual suffering and the widespread pain she perceives in the nation.
Her publication has not been limited to the personal; rather, it has gone further and appealed to a sense of spiritual community.
With firm words, he added: “The Lord reminded me that, while Cuba is falling apart and there seems to be no hope, there remains a faithful remnant whose duty is to proclaim salvation only through Jesus Christ. And that I am part of this remnant.”
The young woman concluded her message with a blend of inner strength and tenderness.
"This is what motivated me to take a shower, put on a little makeup, and snap a cheerful photo to tell you that: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and that in Him there is forgiveness and salvation," she concluded.
Seven years later: Faith as a pathway
More than seven years have passed since Mailén survived the accident of Cubana de Aviación flight DMJ-972, which resulted in 112 fatalities.
At that time, she was only 19 years old. Today, that young woman who underwent multiple surgeries, lost part of her leg, and became paralyzed, has embarked on a new journey as a theology student at the Methodist Seminary in Havana.
"It has been a great privilege to begin my Bachelor's degree in Theology. To God be the glory!" she wrote in September, clearly emotional. For her, this decision is not just academic, but spiritual.
Inspired by the words of a Methodist bishop who told her that, although she did not have a ministry, she had a valuable dream, Mailén has found in faith a calling and a reason to continue.
Her life no longer revolves around physical recovery, but rather on building a message of redemption, one that, as she has indicated, also includes the fate of Cuba.
From trauma to transformation
The accident on May 18, 2018, left her between life and death. Since then, her existence has been marked by a constant struggle to survive and adapt.
Her recovery has been described by herself as "a miracle from God."
But it has not been without difficulties: in the past, it reported the lack of access to medications and basic supplies in the Cuban healthcare system.
"I am not living the sweet life, I also struggle like everyone else," he stated in a live session.
She was also clear in stating: “I don’t have to thank the Cuban healthcare system, but rather those who have contributed their share to my well-being.”
Those words sparked debate, but also expressions of solidarity. Cubans inside and outside the country sent him medical aid to continue his treatment.
A community that embraces her
Mailén's recent post not only sparked reflection but also generated a wave of support on social media.
Dozens of internet users commented with messages of faith, love, and admiration. Some even saw in her a spiritual symbol:
"You are an example of the power and glory of God; I hope for better days soon." “You are absolutely right. Jesus, King of Kings, will soon put an end to so much suffering and pain in this world.” “God bless you and favor you in all areas of your life. In the name of Jesus, receive healing through His wounds. Amen.” “That's right, sister. We believe what you say is true. God bless you,” were some of the comments.
The messages converge on a shared idea: Mailén represents a "faithful remnant" that does not give up, that still believes, that still prays.
As one user wrote: “There is a people of God kneeling, inside and outside of Cuba, praying for Cuba and in faith we know that He hears the prayers and cries of His children.”
Critiques and nuances
Although most of the comments were positive, there were also voices that criticized the lack of reference to Cuban health.
For example, he pointed out: “You forgot to mention that thanks to God and this island called Cuba, you are telling this story today because the Government, the doctors, and the people did everything to keep you alive.”
Others requested a "special thanks to those doctors, health personnel who did so much to save your life, in return for nothing."
For years, Mailén has been consistent in her approach: gratitude towards those who have helped her is not exclusive, but her faith is the compass that guides her discourse.
A transformed life
Before the accident, Mailén was studying Nursing. She then attempted to pursue a degree in Psychology, inspired by the specialists who cared for her during her rehabilitation.
Mailén lives in the Siboney neighborhood, where she bought a house with the compensation from the accident. In 2021, she managed to board an airplane again, overcoming her fear, and documented it as a symbol of triumph.
In every stage of her life after the accident, Mailén has emphasized the power of faith. Her latest reflection is not just a religious message; it is also a spiritual call to action: Cuba needs hope, and she aims to be among those who proclaim it.
“There is still a faithful remnant,” she affirms. She knows she is part of that group, that small spiritual army that, from within its own ruins, chooses to stand tall, wear makeup, smile, and say: “I am still praying for Cuba.”
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