An inspiring act of kindness has profoundly impacted the life of Ismary Haro, a cancer survivor in Matanzas, thanks to the compassionate gesture of Chavely Ojea. Ojea, a Cuban woman, decided to donate a breast prosthesis in memory of her late grandmother.
Christian Arbolaez shared on the "Cardenenses en Facebook" group that Ojea had originally purchased the prosthesis for her grandmother, who sadly passed before she could use it. Rather than keeping it, Ojea chose to give it new purpose by reaching out on social media to find someone in need. Her initiative quickly bore fruit, and the prosthesis was donated to Haro, who expressed profound gratitude for this selfless act.
For Haro, the prosthesis represents more than just physical support; it embodies strength, empathy, and solidarity—qualities vital for healing after cancer. This gesture not only honors Ojea's grandmother’s memory but also exemplifies how small acts can significantly change others' lives, noted Arbolaez. "Sometimes, a small act can change everything. Today, Chavely has reminded us of that," Arbolaez remarked.
Acts of Solidarity in the Face of Adversity
Stories like this highlight the power of goodwill and the Cuban people's ability to come together and support one another during challenging times. In a similar spirit, young Cuban Yoandy Palomino shaved his head in solidarity with his cancer-stricken mother on the International Day for the Fight against Breast Cancer, October 19. During a Facebook live stream from his home in Jatibonico, Palomino asked his mother, Esther, to shave his head completely, symbolizing his tribute to "my warrior."
Another example of community support involved a 21-year-old Cuban man who sought assistance for his mother battling cancer. He requested medication, financial contributions, and employment opportunities to care for her. Liudal H Almeida Cuéllar, residing in Cárdenas, Matanzas, shared his poignant story in the "TODO DE CUBA!!!" Facebook group, detailing his mother’s health challenges with a colon tumor.