Senator Marco Rubio has successfully urged the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prioritize the case of Jorgito, a Cuban boy suffering from leukemia. Jorgito's survival hinges on his ability to travel to Florida, where Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is prepared to perform a bone marrow transplant, his only chance for survival.
In Cuba, such medical procedures are not performed due to inadequate conditions, as confirmed by sources from the hospital in Havana where Jorgito is currently receiving treatment. The office of Senator Marco Rubio contacted Jorge Esteban Reina Llerena, Jorgito's father who resides in the United States, on August 27th. Their intervention followed an interview with the boy's mother, who pleaded for expedited processing of the humanitarian visa, as her son's condition is critical: without the transplant, he cannot survive.
Rubio's team reached out to USCIS, and within less than two weeks, the family received a response, accessed by CiberCuba. The agency assured them that Jorgito's case is now considered "priority" and is awaiting review by immigration authorities. However, they clarified that this does not guarantee an immediate decision on the humanitarian visa, only that the case will be reviewed with urgency.
Mother's Plea for Urgent Visa Interview
On August 22nd, Arlety Llerena Martínez, Jorgito's 33-year-old mother who lives in Guanabacoa, requested an expedited interview for the humanitarian visa to travel to the United States with her son, who is suffering from cancer. Jorgito's father, who has been residing in Florida for four years, has not returned to Cuba during this period but stays in contact with his son through video calls.
The family was deeply disheartened when Cuban doctors confirmed that there was nothing more they could do for the boy's life in Cuba. However, the doctors did inform them that a bone marrow transplant is the only solution, but the necessary conditions for such a procedure do not exist in Cuba.
Given this information, it's understandable why Jorgito's mother is urgently seeking permission to travel to the United States, where a hospital is ready to undertake the boy's treatment. Seven-year-old Jorge Esteban has been battling leukemia for five years. He cannot play with other children, avoid sunlight, and experiences inflammation. He undergoes chemotherapy and other treatments, though not all are effective due to the hygiene issues in Cuban hospitals.
Jorgito's family is raising funds to cover the costs of the trip to the United States and his hospitalization. So far, they have gathered over $12,400 on the crowdfunding platform Give a Hand. To contribute to his treatment, click here.
FAQs on Jorgito's Medical Journey to the U.S.
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding Jorgito's medical situation and the efforts to bring him to the United States for treatment.
Why is Jorgito's case being prioritized by USCIS?
Jorgito's case is being prioritized due to his critical medical condition. He needs a bone marrow transplant that cannot be performed in Cuba due to inadequate medical facilities.
What role did Senator Marco Rubio play in this situation?
Senator Marco Rubio's office intervened by contacting USCIS to expedite the processing of Jorgito's humanitarian visa, ensuring his case received urgent attention.
How is the family managing the medical expenses for Jorgito?
The family is raising funds through the crowdfunding platform Give a Hand and has already collected more than $12,400 to cover the travel and hospitalization costs.