A Cuban mother is seeking assistance for her nine-year-old son, who has been hospitalized for four months at the pediatric hospital in Centro Habana. The boy, Bryan Daniel Valdés, suffers from a severe neurological condition known as Guillain-Barré syndrome, which left him paralyzed from the neck down in less than 72 hours. Additionally, he has transverse myelitis, another neurological disorder.
His mother, Ana Vigoa, shared a video on her Facebook profile explaining that she has been unable to work during this period and lacks the resources to cope with the situation, which includes buying diapers and food for her son.
"The doctors tell me this is a very long process, it could take more time, requiring rehabilitation, because he completely lost the ability to walk, everything... he was very ill," she said tearfully.
"Right now, he is malnourished, lacking iron and vitamins, and the doctors say that when he leaves the hospital, he will have a tracheotomy and gastrostomy (a tube in his stomach for feeding)," she detailed.
Ana added that once back home, her son would need air conditioning, but she lives in a wooden house without proper conditions in a town in Artemisa called Bahía Honda, "at the end of the world."
"So, what I'm asking for, please, is help in any way possible. I will be grateful for whatever assistance you can provide, because I'm truly desperate and don't know what else to do. I have no way out, I can't take it anymore; seeing my son like this breaks my heart," she emphasized, distressed.
Cuban journalist Niover Licea shared a video on his social media of Ana and her son's humble home, showing the poor condition of the roof and walls—though it is clean and orderly despite the poverty—highlighting the unsuitability for a child with such a serious illness.
Common Questions About Bryan Daniel Valdés's Condition and Needs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Bryan Daniel Valdés's medical condition and the assistance his family needs, to help provide more clarity and support.
What is Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system. It can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and other severe symptoms.
What kind of support does Bryan need?
Bryan needs medical supplies such as diapers and specialized food, as well as household improvements like air conditioning to create a suitable living environment for his condition.
How can people help Bryan and his family?
People can help by providing financial donations, medical supplies, or any form of assistance that can improve the family's living conditions and support Bryan's recovery process.