Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano Sánchez, who leads the Free Cuban Medical Guild, issued a warning on Sunday regarding the precarious health of Geobel Damir Ortiz Ramírez. Damir remains in the intensive care unit at the Institute of Hematology.
Through a Facebook post, Ruano detailed Damir's condition, noting that he suffers from type 1 neurofibromatosis and has a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye. Currently, he is categorized as a critical and unstable patient after enduring a night of complications.
Recently, Damir experienced a significant drop in platelets and hemoglobin, accompanied by bleeding from a lesion on the side of his face and his right eye. In response, medical professionals administered the antifungal medication Amphotericin B and performed another transfusion, involving three units of platelets, plasma, and red blood cells. This procedure continued into Sunday morning, as highlighted by the doctor.
Despite the severity of his condition, a chest X-ray showed a slight improvement in respiratory function, suggesting that the antibiotic treatment is effective, according to intensivist Dr. Raúl. Additionally, there has been an improvement in his urine output. Damir remains fever-free, conscious, and cooperative with medical procedures.
The latest laboratory tests reveal hemoglobin levels at 7.4, platelets at 16,000, and leukocytes at 3,000. Following the completion of transfusions, further blood tests are anticipated to evaluate Damir's progress, as he continues to face significant clinical and hematological instability.
In recent months, Damir's health has further deteriorated due to a diagnosis of acute leukemia, complicating his already fragile condition.
Last February, the U.S. Embassy in Cuba announced its commitment to processing a humanitarian visa for Damir. Activist Diasniurka Salcedo, who has been closely monitoring the situation, confirmed that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reached out to Damir's godmother to request additional documentation, offering a glimmer of hope for the visa process to move forward.
Understanding Damir's Medical and Immigration Situation
What conditions is Damir suffering from?
Damir has been diagnosed with type 1 neurofibromatosis and has a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye. Additionally, he has been diagnosed with acute leukemia, which has further complicated his health situation.
What treatments has Damir received recently?
Damir has received Amphotericin B, an antifungal medication, and has undergone transfusions involving three units of platelets, plasma, and red blood cells to address his critical condition.
Is there any progress on Damir's visa application?
Yes, the U.S. Embassy in Cuba has indicated its intention to proceed with Damir's humanitarian visa process. The USCIS has contacted Damir's godmother to request additional documents, which is a positive step towards obtaining the visa.