Activist Nelson Álvarez, widely known as "El Porfiao", issued an urgent appeal on Monday to Cuba's Minister of Public Health to take swift action to save the life of two-year-old Ester Lianet Asprón Rey, who has been in critical condition for weeks at a Las Tunas hospital due to the lack of a valve needed for her hydrocephalus treatment.
Álvarez, who spearheads a project aimed at aiding those in need in Cuba, particularly ill children, posted a letter on Facebook addressed to José Ángel Portal Miranda, the head of the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP). In the letter, he urged immediate action to procure the urgently needed medical device for the young patient, whose condition has been deteriorating and whose life is at risk.
"It would be tragic to lose this two-year-old girl over a 'simple tube,' and I assure you that time will undoubtedly become her worst enemy if the delay persists," Álvarez warned in the letter directed at the health minister.
Details of the Medical Condition
The activist elaborated on the medical details of the hydrocephalus patient, who is admitted to the Pediatric Hospital of Las Tunas and has undergone six surgeries due to the absence of the necessary device: a self-regulating ventricular valve that internally drains cerebrospinal fluid. Currently, the child has an external tube, making her highly susceptible to bacterial infections, Álvarez has previously explained.
"Sir, the child’s condition worsens by the moment. This issue can be resolved within the country; it merely requires the necessary steps to acquire the valve," Álvarez urged in his appeal to the minister, demanding "swift actions to save the girl's life."
El Porfiao also mentioned the numerous efforts made to procure the valve from abroad: "We have done everything possible to secure it internationally, as it is not very expensive, but we have been unsuccessful because the responses we received indicate that they do not ship or only sell to hospitals."
Despite considerable efforts, he admitted, "We have exhausted all options, even though we have the necessary funds for the purchase."
Álvarez highlighted the desperation of the child's family, as well as the broader community, as the issue has gone viral on social media, even attracting international attention. He appealed to the minister's understanding of "the urgency and significance of Ester's case."
"Awaiting a response and, more importantly, immediate actions," the activist concluded his letter.
The campaign to help save Ester’s life began weeks ago on social media and has successfully raised the required funds for the medical device through two bank accounts and a petition on the GoFundMe platform. However, acquiring the valve in time for the patient remains impossible. The delay endangers her life.
The young girl underwent her sixth surgery on September 6 due to the obstruction of the external tube, leading to fluid retention and worsening hydrocephalus.
Álvarez requested prayers for her life. "Friends, my heart is heavy with this recent news. As always, it's the waiting, the cursed waiting, the absurd waiting. God, do not abandon Ester in this critical moment; our trust is in you," he pleaded.
On Saturday, he reported that the child was "stable, awaiting the stabilization of all parameters associated with this type of pathology."
"Let’s trust in God and the medical staff attending to the little girl. Everyone, please pray for her swift recovery," he urged.
FAQs on Ester Lianet Asprón Rey's Critical Condition
To provide additional clarity on this urgent situation, we have compiled some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding Ester Lianet Asprón Rey’s health crisis and the efforts being made to save her life.
What medical condition is Ester Lianet Asprón Rey suffering from?
Ester Lianet Asprón Rey is suffering from hydrocephalus, a condition where fluid accumulates in the brain, requiring a self-regulating ventricular valve to drain the fluid.
Why is there an urgent need for a medical device?
Ester needs a self-regulating ventricular valve to replace the external tube currently in place, which makes her vulnerable to infections. The delay in obtaining this device is critically endangering her life.
What efforts have been made to procure the valve?
Extensive efforts have been made to secure the valve internationally, including raising funds through social media and crowdfunding platforms. However, logistical challenges and restrictions have prevented the acquisition of the valve.
What can the public do to help?
The public can help by raising awareness about Ester’s situation, contributing to fundraising efforts, and praying for her recovery. Support from the international community is crucial in pressuring authorities to act swiftly.