An elderly Cuban woman, identified as María Elena Martínez Luacez, has issued a plea for colostomy bags, as she is currently using plastic bags as a substitute. In a Facebook post, she explains that since her surgery on August 13, 2022, she has depended on these bags but has been without them for two weeks, forcing her to use nylon bags instead.
"I have been without colostomy bags for two weeks and have resorted to using loud plastic bags. The one in the photo was loaned to me by an elderly woman," detailed María Elena, a resident of Vélez neighborhood in Pinar del Río. She also mentioned struggling with a lack of medications such as amitriptyline and alprazolam.
"I feel very weak and sick. I need amitriptyline and alprazolam, but I have none. The ulcer is destroying me. There's nothing in the hospital. I'm starving," she expressed in desperation, noting that her hemoglobin level is at 9. María Elena weighs just 70 pounds and lives in constant pain, having lost her three children.
"I feel alone and upset. I did nothing to deserve this. When I could, I helped everyone because I am a Christian," María Elena shared, also revealing her darkest thoughts due to her critical situation: "I have considered taking my life; by slitting my throat or taking pills," she confessed.
María Elena states that anyone who can help her obtain large colostomy bags with side clips can contact her at the landline 4877 9583. Her postal address is Tete Contino Street #58 interior, between Fifth Street and Gabriel Lache. Vélez neighborhood, Pinar del Río.
Colostomy patients in Cuba endure a daily ordeal to secure colostomy bags. Recently, the case of a young girl who couldn't attend school due to a lack of these bags in Holguín came to light.
FAQs about Colostomy Bag Shortages in Cuba
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the severe shortage of colostomy bags in Cuba and the impact it has on patients like María Elena Martínez Luacez.
Why are colostomy bags in short supply in Cuba?
The shortage of colostomy bags in Cuba is primarily due to the country's economic struggles and the government's inability to provide adequate medical supplies.
How can people help María Elena and others in similar situations?
People can help by donating colostomy bags or reaching out to organizations that provide medical supplies to Cuba. María Elena can be contacted directly at her landline or through her postal address.
What other challenges do colostomy patients face in Cuba?
In addition to the shortage of colostomy bags, patients face a lack of medications, inadequate healthcare facilities, and nutritional deficiencies.