The Cuban comedian and actor Ulises Toirac posted an emotional message of gratitude on Facebook this Monday to the team of surgeons at the Manuel Fajardo Hospital in Havana, where he is currently receiving medical care. He highlighted their dedication and professionalism amidst the blackouts and hardships that Cuba is facing.
Toirac, who has a long list of health issues— asthma and problems with his vision, hearing, and spine— stated that his extensive experience with the healthcare system allows him to speak "authoritatively about Cuban doctors and nurses."
The core of his message was the recognition of healthcare professionals who face the same difficulties as the rest of the population while remaining committed to their vocation.
"The Cuban doctors —and this group of surgeons among them— are dedicated and absolutely professional. Smart people," he stated.
They go to their hospitals and wards, and patients under the same blackouts as all of us, often on the same transport as all of us, and enduring the same hardships as all of us. Without complaints, without bitterness, without mistreatment,” wrote Toirac.
The comedian emphasized that these professionals continue to care for their patients "with a smile and determination" that evoke amazement and gratitude when one observes, in his words, "the complete package."
He, too, a screenwriter, dedicated special words to Dr. Juana María Velázquez, whom he considers "family, no buts," both for the years of their relationship and for her talent and grace.
The message does not constitute a direct criticism of the regime, although it highlights the difficult conditions under which Cuban doctors work and acknowledges their ability to prioritize their vocation and humanist spirit over personal interests.
"More than the teacher's phrase 'Honor to whom honor is due'—because I do not seek to feel honored—I am motivated by the recognition of the existence of people whose talent, knowledge, and sacrifice continue to validate their humanistic spirit above personal interests," he expressed.
Toirac concluded his publication with a brief and powerful statement: "That was it... my bow. And my eternal gratitude."
The tribute takes on special significance in light of the grave deterioration of the Cuban healthcare system. Hospitals on the island have faced blackouts of up to 20 hours a day, while more than 96,000 people are waiting for surgeries, including around 11,000 children.
Official statistics also show that Cuba lost 30,767 doctors between 2021 and 2024, decreasing from 106,131 registered physicians to 75,364, a reduction that has further weakened the country's healthcare capacity.
Toirac is not unfamiliar with criticism regarding the Cuban crisis. In June, he described the country as a “maze with no solution” and denounced the lack of medications and healthcare professionals.
In December 2025, he also questioned the inaction of the authorities regarding deaths related to the epidemiological crisis. The artist himself had contracted chikungunya in November and later recounted that the illness continued to affect his neck, shoulders, and spine.
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