A 49-year-old Cuban man living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, suffered a stroke on March 19 and now faces the grim possibility of being sent back to the island due to a lack of proper documentation and Medicaid coverage at the time of the severe health incident.
The Cuban, identified as Néstor Fernández Izquierdo, is currently admitted to Penrose Hospital. The institution has suggested sending him to Cuba because he lacks legal papers and health insurance in the U.S., and the hospital claims it cannot continue to cover the expenses, according to Univision journalist Javier Díaz.
Néstor Fernández arrived in the United States on a boat in May 2023 but did not report to Immigration authorities at the time. It wasn't until January of this year that he began processing his documentation. Unfortunately, his social security number, work permit, and Medicaid were not ready when he suffered the severe health crisis.
The person taking care of Néstor is his sister, Daineris Fernández, who has been in the U.S. for only four months and lacks the resources to cover her brother's medical expenses.
"Without insurance, he is incurring hospital expenses, and they want to make the necessary arrangements to send him to a hospital in Cuba. They told me I could take him home or they could handle the deportation," Daineris explained, emphasizing that her brother currently requires permanent medical attention.
Néstor Fernández was in a coma for almost 25 days following the neurological incident, which affected the left side of his brain. He will need rehabilitation therapies, and his family is seeking help to ensure this process can take place in the United States. Sending him back to Cuba would be the worst option given his delicate physical condition and the crisis faced by the island.
Daineris Fernández is asking for any form of assistance, whether financial or legal advice, to cope with the situation. Another option the hospital has provided, besides sending him to Cuba, is to transfer him to Miami. However, the institution revealed that it would cost over $7,000 to move her brother from Colorado to Miami.
FAQs About Néstor Fernández Izquierdo's Situation
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the difficult situation faced by Néstor Fernández Izquierdo and his family.
Why is Néstor Fernández facing deportation?
Néstor Fernández is facing deportation because he lacks legal documentation and health insurance in the U.S., and the hospital cannot continue to cover his medical expenses.
What options does the hospital offer for Néstor's care?
The hospital has suggested either sending Néstor to Cuba or transferring him to Miami, with the latter option costing over $7,000.
How can people assist Néstor Fernández and his family?
People can assist by providing financial aid or legal advice to help the family manage the medical expenses and explore options to keep Néstor in the U.S. for his necessary treatments.