A wave of relief washes over the Cuban community following the uplifting news about Amanda Lemus Ortiz. The young girl is showing significant improvement after her organ transplant in Spain and can now play without the discomfort of catheters and IVs.
Activist Yamilka Laffita, known as Lara Crofs, has been diligently updating Cubans on Amanda's journey since it began in Havana, where Amanda's parents were desperately seeking medical treatment to save their daughter’s life.
"Amanda laughs! Since yesterday, she has nothing that hurts or injures that little body. No catheters, no IVs, just LIFE. We are all together in this," the activist shared on Facebook, along with a recent, joyful photo of Amanda.
The family endured a period of intense desperation in Cuba, as Amanda's condition worsened daily and the public health system was unable to perform the liver transplant despite having a donor available.
Amanda's mother made a desperate plea for help on social media, and Cubans rallied to support her mission to save Amanda's life. Many people donated money, while others facilitated various efforts until, in March 2024, a hospital in Madrid performed Amanda's liver transplant and has been caring for her since.
Doctors caution that Amanda's recovery will have several stages and it may still take some time before she is fully discharged. Continuous medical supervision is essential.
To aid with the family's expenses, Amanda's family and friends set up a GoFundMe account, raising 28,000 euros in donations. These funds help the parents, as the hospital covers all of Amanda's needs, but the adults accompanying her need to support themselves and still do not have work permits in Spain.
Amanda's Medical Journey and Community Support
Here are some frequently asked questions about Amanda Lemus Ortiz's medical journey and the community support she has received.
What was Amanda Lemus Ortiz's medical condition?
Amanda Lemus Ortiz needed a liver transplant due to a severe illness that was rapidly worsening her health.
How did the community support Amanda's family?
The community rallied together by donating money and facilitating efforts to get Amanda the medical treatment she needed in Madrid, Spain.
What role did Yamilka Laffita play in Amanda's journey?
Yamilka Laffita, also known as Lara Crofs, kept the public informed about Amanda's condition and progress, helping to garner support for the family.