Elizabeth González Aznar, the daughter of Dr. Raúl González Hernández, who developed the anti-anemic medication Trofin, has brought to light the struggles her father faces in obtaining the drug for his family. Despite the seriousness of her allegations, she remains unafraid of potential backlash, citing the apparent institutional neglect that has been evident since her father's retirement.
In a post on Facebook, González shared that they have relied on the generosity of others to acquire bottles of Trofin, a product that has significantly benefitted Cuban health but is now nearly impossible to obtain. She expressed deep gratitude towards those who have helped them, including employees at BioCen, whose names she withheld to protect them from possible repercussions.
Despite the risks, González stands by her decision to speak out, emphasizing her father's deserving recognition and support for his dedication to developing Trofin. "Many are worried about the consequences, censorship, retaliation, or some form of reprimand, but I honestly don't think it will happen," she stated.
González believes it would be "logical" to receive some feedback from BioCen or BioCubaFarma management, but she doubts it: "Since my dad retired, there have been several gestures, signals, and actions of 'we don't care about you,' 'you're no longer needed,' which makes us confident that nothing will happen."
Her stance is not without its risks, but she remains resolute in defending her family's legacy. González recalled previously choosing silence in similar situations after her mother's death, but now, with her father still alive, she felt compelled to speak up.
González's revelations have sparked widespread solidarity on social media, with thousands expressing their support and outrage over the institutional disregard for Trofin's creator. On December 3, while the Cuban government "celebrates" doctors, it is important to remember that other health sector workers also face government neglect and hardships after retirement.
A staggering 39% of Cuban retirees receive the minimum pension, a figure that becomes even more concerning when viewed in absolute numbers. Of the 1.7 million Social Security beneficiaries in Cuba—encompassing retirees, maternity protection, and those with partial disabilities—nearly four in ten retirees receive just 1,528 pesos per month.
Virginia Marlene García Reyes, the general director of Social Security at the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, confirmed these figures to the state media. In statements to Cubadebate, she explained that the government allocates 40 million pesos for pension payments amid an inflation rate that stubbornly remained above 30% in 2023.
These statistics place a significant portion of the Cuban population in a difficult position: What can a retiree afford today with 1,528 pesos?
Understanding the Challenges for Cuban Retirees
Why is Trofin difficult to obtain in Cuba?
Due to institutional neglect and supply chain issues, Trofin has become nearly inaccessible, despite its significant health benefits.
What challenges do Cuban retirees face with the pension system?
A large percentage of retirees receive the minimum pension of 1,528 pesos, insufficient to cover basic living expenses amid high inflation.
How has the Cuban government responded to these pension issues?
The government allocates 40 million pesos for pensions, but this is inadequate in light of persistent inflation above 30% in 2023.