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José Antonio Hernández Trujillo, a diabetic Cuban who had his left leg amputated above the knee, claims that he survives thanks to the support of family and neighbors while facing severe pain, food shortages, and a lack of attention from state institutions.
From his home in the La Sierra neighborhood, in Playa municipality, Havana, the man posted a desperate message on Facebook last Saturday, describing the conditions in which he lives.
"Thanks to my family and one or two neighbors who, when they remember, give me something to eat," she wrote.
He explained that he can't even keep the water he drinks cold. "I drink the water warm from a bottle I have next to my bed," he lamented.
The situation has worsened due to health issues that require urgent medical attention. Hernández Trujillo lost a leg after suffering complications related to diabetes and chikungunya, a disease that affected thousands of Cubans during 2025. He is now facing another surgical intervention because the bone in the stump is pressing against the skin from the inside.
"I am enduring the wildest pain that one can withstand. Look at the photo of the stump, and you will see the bone pressing against the skin, trying to break through," he reported alongside images of the injury.
The Cuban man asserts that he does not receive a pension and is not listed among the beneficiaries of food aid distributed through the bodega.
He also reported that he tried to seek social assistance without receiving a response.
"I request a visit from the social worker, with an old communist, my neighbor, and nothing," she stated.
In addition to health and nutrition issues, the deterioration of basic services is affecting a large part of the country.
"There is no electricity, no internet, no connection with ETECSA, no water, no gas, no transportation; each passing day gets worse," he wrote.
Her case reflects the increasing reliance of many vulnerable individuals on the support of family, friends, and neighbors amid the economic and social challenges facing Cuba.
The chikungunya epidemic recorded in 2025 left tens of thousands affected on the island. In patients with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, the virus can worsen circulatory issues and increase the risk of severe infections and amputations.
The food crisis also particularly affects the elderly, the sick, and people with disabilities. The UN estimates that in 2026, with a funding shortfall exceeding 60 million dollars. The Food Monitor Program reported that 96.91% of the Cuban population lacked adequate access to food in April 2026.
On its part, the Family Assistance System, which served about 67,000 people in 2025, has been recognized by the State itself as insufficient given the magnitude of the crisis. The minimum pension of 1,528 Cuban pesos, even after the increase promised by the government, continues to be unable to meet basic needs: 99% of retirees are unable to satisfy their essential needs.
In a desperate attempt to find help, Hernández Trujillo posted his phone number, address, and personal information on social media.
His message concludes with a phrase that summarizes the level of distress he claims to be experiencing:
"Let the country go already, you cannot handle this monster. I shouldn't be crying out of desperation and helplessness. God help me."
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