In an impressive display of solidarity, Cubans both at home and abroad have nearly gathered the full amount required to secure an air ambulance for Damir Ortiz Ramírez, a young boy in need of urgent medical care in the United States. Within just 24 hours, these efforts have accumulated $36,804.20 of the $38,000 needed.
Activist Idelisa Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia shared the news during a live Facebook broadcast, expressing her gratitude for the overwhelming support. "Thank you, everyone," she said with emotion.
A source informed CiberCuba that if the remaining funds are collected by the end of Saturday, Damir and his mother could be flying to the United States as soon as Sunday. "We are very close," Diasniurka added, visibly moved by the generous contributions from the community, including several musicians.
In Cuba alone, more than a million pesos have been donated, showcasing the unity and compassion of the Cuban people. Damir Ortiz, who suffers from neurofibromatosis type 1, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, and acute leukemia, received a humanitarian visa on Friday to seek treatment in a U.S. hospital.
On Saturday, Damir's mother, Eliannis Ramírez, visited the U.S. embassy, where she received the approved visas for both of them, as confirmed by another live update from Diasniurka Salcedo. Despite the embassy typically being closed on weekends, an exception was made due to the urgent nature of Damir's case. Now, the young boy can be transported to the U.S. without delay.
While a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Damir and his mother, those funds remain inaccessible until they arrive in the U.S. and provide proof of their location. Salcedo has urged the Cuban community to continue donating directly. "The fundraising is on hold because policy prevents us from using that money until the child is here," she explained on Friday.
Damir's health has deteriorated in recent months with his leukemia diagnosis, further complicating his condition. Fortunately, a hospital in Miami has agreed to provide the necessary treatment, prompting the GoFundMe campaign to raise $40,000 for medical and travel expenses.
Previously, the family had been denied a humanitarian visa due to missing documentation from the Ministry of Public Health of Cuba (MINSAP), but the recent visa approval offers hope for Damir's urgent medical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damir Ortiz's Medical Journey
What medical conditions does Damir Ortiz have?
Damir Ortiz suffers from neurofibromatosis type 1, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, and acute leukemia.
How much money has been raised for Damir Ortiz's treatment?
As of now, $36,804.20 has been raised, with a goal of $38,000 needed for the air ambulance service.
Why can't the GoFundMe funds be used immediately?
The GoFundMe funds are on hold due to policy restrictions that require the child to be in the U.S. and proof of their location to be provided before the money can be accessed.