Eliannis Ramírez, mother of Damir Ortiz, a Cuban child suffering from neurofibromatosis type 1 who was transferred to the United States for treatment, has spoken out harshly against Cuban doctors who incorrectly diagnosed her son with leukemia. In an interview with journalist Javier Díaz from Univision 23, Eliannis expressed her feelings of betrayal, despite initially trusting the Cuban hematologists' diagnosis.
"I somewhat trusted the diagnosis made by the Cuban hematologists because they cried with me, but they are deceitful. Just like the diagnosis they made in less than 24 hours," she stated.
The mother accused the Cuban doctors of diagnosing her son with the most severe form of leukemia, claiming it was an attempt to get rid of her. "They believed my son's death was inevitable," she declared with determination.
Tests conducted at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami revealed that Damir does not have the disease, bringing relief to the family. The child is showing progress, albeit slowly.
A Ray of Hope in Miami
Upon arriving in the United States, Damir was in critical condition, but within just seven days of treatment, he has shown improvement. "It's impressive how in just seven days, which is how long we've been here, the child is a little better," Eliannis added.
The Pain of a Mother
Eliannis also shared an emotional post on social media, expressing her deep sorrow over the potential irreversible damage to Damir's eyesight due to incorrect treatment in Cuba. "It fills me with immense sadness because, although I try to remain as positive as possible, I can't ignore the reality that they ruined my son's vision and life. The ophthalmologist says he doesn't believe Damir will be able to see again..." she wrote.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Damir's future due to the previous treatment's aftermath, Eliannis reaffirmed her unconditional love for her son: "If I have to give you one of my eyes, my retina, my cornea, whatever it takes so you can see your toy cars, I will do it, you can be sure of that."
New Treatment Plan
Cuban doctor Miguel Ángel Ruano Sánchez, who has been instrumental in Damir's healthcare, announced that the child will begin chemotherapy with doxorubicin, a potent drug used for treating certain cancers. This decision was made based on the positive developments observed in the patient's condition in recent hours.
Ruano also pointed out that doxorubicin was never administered to Damir in Cuba, even though it was requested by the medical team. The Institute of Hematology's authorities claimed the drug was "not necessary in the initial phase of chemotherapy," but Ruano suggested the issue was more about the medication's unavailability on the island.
Eliannis praised the level of transparency and quality of care her son is receiving in Miami. "Here they show you everything. You don't have to wait hours for a result. Everything is documented, and the doctors and nurses give you their phone numbers for any questions," she remarked.
Damir still faces significant challenges, such as hospital-acquired infections he contracted during his stay in the Cuban hospital, caused by bacteria like Klebsiella and Enterobacter cloacae, which can result from poor hygiene conditions.
His mother accused the Cuban regime of abandoning him. "They gave up on Damir and considered him dead. It's all part of the same system, the same bad government," she stated in a message filled with anger and disillusionment.
Damir Ortiz continues to battle a long road to recovery, but his mother and family hold onto the hope that he will overcome this painful ordeal and embrace a future full of hope and love.
Key Questions About Damir Ortiz's Medical Journey
What was the initial diagnosis given to Damir Ortiz by Cuban doctors?
Cuban doctors initially diagnosed Damir Ortiz with leukemia, which was later proven to be incorrect after tests in the United States.
What treatment is Damir receiving in Miami?
Damir is undergoing chemotherapy with doxorubicin, a powerful drug used for some types of cancer, as part of his treatment in Miami.
How has Damir's family reacted to the medical care in Miami?
Damir's family has praised the transparency and quality of care in Miami, appreciating the quick results and open communication with medical staff.