The Cuban child, Damir Ortiz Ramírez, is now under medical care in Miami after a determined effort by his mother, Eliannis Ramírez, and the Cuban civil society, which rallied to secure his transfer to the United States. On March 12, Damir arrived in Miami via an air ambulance and was promptly taken to a pediatric hospital to receive the specialized treatment he desperately needs.
Activist Idelisa Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia shared images on social media following the child's arrival at the healthcare facility, expressing her joy and gratitude for the support shown during weeks of relentless efforts. "As it should be! He is now receiving the proper care. We are delighted," she wrote on Facebook, alongside a photo confirming his admission to the hospital after an intense campaign of aid by the Cuban civil society.
The story of 10-year-old Damir has touched the hearts of the Cuban community both on the island and abroad. Initially diagnosed with type 1 neurofibromatosis, Damir developed a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, impairing his vision and causing severe eye inflammation. His condition worsened with a diagnosis of acute leukemia, along with kidney damage and a significant drop in platelets and hemoglobin, leading to bleeding episodes and the urgent need for transfusions.
Due to the lack of adequate treatment in Cuba, his mother launched a campaign to bring him to the U.S., facing bureaucratic hurdles from Cuban authorities and an initial denial of a humanitarian visa from the United States. Nevertheless, the pressure from activists and citizens turned the tide, securing the necessary permits and funding for his transfer.
The mobilization of citizens has been crucial at every stage of this process. The Cuban community, both inside and outside the country, gathered the required funds for the air ambulance, while in Cuba, dozens organized to donate A+ blood when needed prior to his departure.
Damir's case exemplifies the power of Cuban civil society, which successfully overcame bureaucracy and mobilized to save the life of a child in urgent need of medical attention.
Key Questions About Damir's Medical Journey
What medical conditions does Damir suffer from?
Damir has been diagnosed with type 1 neurofibromatosis, a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, acute leukemia, kidney damage, and a significant decrease in platelets and hemoglobin.
How did the Cuban civil society contribute to Damir's transfer?
The Cuban community rallied to raise the necessary funds for the air ambulance and organized blood donations, overcoming bureaucratic challenges to secure his transfer to the U.S.
What obstacles did Damir's family face in getting him to the U.S.?
His family faced bureaucratic obstacles from Cuban authorities and an initial denial of a humanitarian visa from the United States before activists and citizens intervened to change the situation.