Young Damir Ortiz Ramírez from Cuba, diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, and acute leukemia, has successfully raised the necessary funds for an air ambulance to the United States for life-saving medical treatment. This achievement was confirmed by activist Idelisa Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia in a Facebook live broadcast, where she shared that the Cuban community's solidarity amassed $45,848, exceeding the $41,800 required to secure the service under suitable conditions for the child.
Within just a few hours, support poured in from Cubans in Cuba, the United States, and other parts of the world, ensuring that Damir and his mother, Eliannis Ramírez, can travel as soon as Tuesday to the U.S. "Where there's a will, there's a way. Thank you. Proud of Cubans and the world. Thank you," expressed the Cuban activist, highlighting that singer La Diosa had helped by sharing the plea for aid.
Dr. Miguel Ángel Ruano Sánchez, head of the Cuban Medical Guild Abroad, noted that the contract with the medical service providing the air ambulance would be signed on Monday, allowing the child to be transported to a Miami, Florida hospital the following day. Salcedo mentioned that the only remaining step was obtaining a piece of information from Cuba's Ministry of Public Health to finalize the contract.
"We are politely requesting all the necessary information to close this contract and facilitate the transfer, yet they seem to be ignoring us," Salcedo criticized. Shortly after, she reported that Cuban authorities had issued the required document. The young boy, whose health has deteriorated in recent months, received a humanitarian visa to seek treatment in the United States.
This Friday, the U.S. Embassy in Cuba informed the child's mother that the parole had been approved. Although the family had previously applied for a humanitarian visa for Damir, it was initially denied due to the Cuban Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) not providing the needed documentation.
The relentless efforts of Eliannis Ramírez and Cuban activists in appealing to the international community and U.S. authorities to secure Damir's urgent medical care have finally paid off. On Saturday, the child's mother received the visa stamped in the passport, allowing for medical attention abroad.
Key Information on Damir Ortiz Ramírez's Medical Transfer
What medical conditions is Damir Ortiz Ramírez facing?
Damir Ortiz Ramírez has been diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, and acute leukemia.
How much money was raised for Damir's air ambulance?
A total of $45,848 was raised, surpassing the $41,800 needed for the air ambulance service.
Who assisted in spreading the call for help for Damir?
The call for help was shared by activist Idelisa Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia and singer La Diosa, among others.