The family of Leyla Alejandra, a young Cuban girl recently diagnosed with mediastinal cancer, has successfully raised over $40,000 to secure a humanitarian visa and intensive treatment in the United States. A GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $50,000 has received more than 1,000 donations, totaling $44,878 at the time of this report.
The family, residing in San Antonio de los Baños, shared their harrowing journey on the fundraising page, detailing the challenges they've faced since the shocking diagnosis of their two-year-old daughter. They expressed their heartfelt wish to see Leyla's smile return. Her father, Alejandro Rivero Sordo, made an emotional plea on social media for assistance, stating, "She deserves a chance to heal."
Emotional Plea for Help
In a moving post on the fundraising platform, the family recounts how their lives were turned upside down three months ago. They were eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new family member and had just picked up Leyla from daycare. "Little did we know that within 15 days, our world would be shattered by the word cancer, filling our lives with tears," they wrote.
Following the diagnosis of mediastinal neuroblastoma, Leyla underwent surgery and has since endured the pain of needles, IVs, and other treatment-related discomforts. Her mother explained that despite the surgery, some cancer cells could not be removed. Magda Abdorabbo, who organized the fundraiser on May 19, revealed her daily torment: "Why her? She's so small and innocent, just about to turn two. She doesn't deserve this. Now, after three months of treatment, the symptoms have returned. Due to inconsistencies in her treatment and the lack of advanced diagnostic technologies in our country, I decided to seek help to restore my daughter's health and continue fighting for her joy and boundless energy."
The widespread crisis in Cuba significantly impacts numerous children with chronic illnesses. Families of many cancer patients and children in need of organ transplants have had to take matters into their own hands, securing humanitarian visas to save their loved ones. Currently, several Cuban mothers with children suffering from leukemia are also seeking humanitarian visas for treatment in hospitals in the United States, Spain, and other countries with accommodating healthcare systems.
FAQs About Humanitarian Visas and Medical Treatment for Cuban Children
In light of the critical situation faced by many Cuban families seeking medical treatment abroad, here are some common questions and answers about obtaining humanitarian visas and accessing healthcare in other countries.
What is a humanitarian visa?
A humanitarian visa is a type of visa granted on compassionate grounds, allowing individuals to enter a country for urgent medical treatment, family reunification, or other critical needs.
How can Cuban families apply for a humanitarian visa?
Cuban families can apply for a humanitarian visa through the consulates or embassies of the country they wish to enter. They must provide medical documentation, proof of financial support, and other relevant information to support their application.
Which countries are most likely to grant humanitarian visas for medical treatment?
Countries such as the United States, Spain, and Canada are known for granting humanitarian visas for medical treatment, especially for children with life-threatening conditions.