A young Cuban named Yumaikel Atanay has turned to social media in a bid to locate his father, whom he hasn't seen since he was an infant in the province of Camagüey. In a heartfelt message on Facebook, Atanay shared that the last time he had any contact with his father, known as Yhoandry, was 23 years ago, when he was just a few months old.
He provided a contact number (58292276) in his post, urging anyone with information to reach out to help reunite his family. The plea has sparked a significant response, with many users expressing support and offering suggestions on how to track down Yhoandry.
However, the post has also sparked debate, with some suggesting that if the father has shown no interest for over two decades, it might be best to leave the past behind. This incident adds to a growing trend of Cubans using social media to search for lost relatives.
Back in July 2024, a man from Santiago de Cuba, who now resides abroad, sought assistance in finding a potential daughter living in Pinar del Río. Similarly, in April of that year, Saimel Gómez, another Cuban, asked for help in locating two siblings in Russia, emphasizing the urgency to reunite his family as their father, who is also the father of his siblings, was old and ill in Cuba.
In a story with a happier ending, a woman from the Czech Republic successfully found her Cuban father, believed to be living in Holguín, thanks to her boyfriend, Christoph Gruhn.
Inspired by this positive outcome, Yumaikel Atanay is eagerly hoping for any lead that could reconnect him with Yhoandry, aiming to heal a wound that has lingered for more than two decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Lost Family Members in Cuba
How can social media help in finding lost family members?
Social media platforms like Facebook allow individuals to reach a wide audience quickly, increasing the chances of finding someone who might have information about a lost family member.
What challenges do people face when searching for relatives in Cuba?
Challenges include limited access to the internet, political and social barriers, and the passage of time, which can make tracking down individuals more difficult.
Has social media been successful in reuniting families in Cuba?
Yes, there have been successful cases where individuals have used social media to locate and reunite with lost family members in Cuba, providing hope to others in similar situations.