The poignant tale of two disabled brothers in Cuba has touched the hearts of many on social media, following a heartfelt plea for assistance from their mother, Yaineris Roque. In a video posted on Facebook, Roque shared that her sons, now 21 and 22 years old, began experiencing difficulties with walking and leg deformities between the ages of five and six.
Since that time, the brothers have been under medical care at Frank País, Juan Manuel Márquez, and William Soler hospitals. Yaineris explained that the first surgery her sons underwent was on November 1, 2022, over two and a half years ago, yet unfortunately, they have seen no improvement.
In her desperation, Yaineris regularly contacts Frank País hospital, specifically reaching out to Dr. Lara, but has yet to receive any tangible solutions. "It’s all lies," she expressed with frustration. "The excuses are endless—repairs in the operating room, lack of resources, and being told to understand the country's situation."
With her sons having had only one surgery at ages 21 and 22, Yaineris notes the lack of any visible improvement. Facing such dire circumstances and the severe deficiencies of the Cuban healthcare system, she is urgently appealing for international solidarity, seeking support to obtain appropriate medical treatment for her sons abroad.
“I sincerely ask that if anyone believes there’s a chance my sons could receive care in another country through a humanitarian visa, with your support, I implore you to help us,” she pleaded.
In a separate Facebook video, her sons described how their disability is rooted in insufficient calcium and phosphorus in their bones. Yaineris, who shares similar health issues and relies on crutches, portrayed herself as a relentless advocate for her children’s well-being. “Our lives have been far from easy, but we refuse to bow to adversity. We keep pushing forward and never turn our backs,” she asserted with determination.
Their story is part of a growing number of individuals amidst Cuba’s healthcare and economic crisis, seeking international aid as their only hope for the medical attention they desperately require.
Understanding the Healthcare Crisis in Cuba
Why do these brothers need surgery outside of Cuba?
Due to the lack of resources and inadequate medical facilities in Cuba, their mother is seeking international assistance to provide her sons with the surgery and care they need.
What are the main challenges of the Cuban healthcare system?
The Cuban healthcare system struggles with resource shortages, outdated medical facilities, and insufficient infrastructure, severely impacting the quality of care available to patients.
What condition are the brothers suffering from?
The brothers are dealing with disabilities that arose from a lack of calcium and phosphorus in their bones, leading to difficulties in walking and leg deformities.