Overwhelmed by the tragic loss of their young daughter in a traffic accident in Austin, Texas, a Cuban family is appealing for help to cover the cremation expenses. Wanda Gertrudis Espinosa Zaldívar, aged 33, died in a car crash on Friday night in the U.S. city, her mother and other relatives revealed on social media.
The family has turned to Facebook to request support from the Cuban community to manage the cremation costs, as they lack the financial means to pay for the service. “She is Wanda Gertrudis, my beloved niece, and she just passed away in Austin due to a traffic accident. Her departure has left a huge void among her family and friends because she was always so sweet,” expressed her aunt, Yoana Ordoño Ricardo, who lives in Holguín, in a post featuring a photo of the young woman.
“We need to cremate her body, and for that, we need to raise money. I ask anyone who can help to message me privately, and I will provide the details. I am in direct contact with her mom, a friend to many in our city and an undocumented migrant in the USA. Please, even a small contribution can help. God bless you,” she wrote.
In an interview with CiberCuba, Ordoño detailed that the tragic accident that ended her niece's life occurred in Austin on the evening of May 9. Wanda had just left work when her car was struck by another vehicle, resulting in her death and that of two other individuals.
Her mother, Bárbara Gertrudis Zaldívar Bueno, 50, is an undocumented immigrant who arrived in the United States just a few months ago, lacking the necessary funds for funeral expenses, Ordoño said. She mentioned that those willing to donate can contact her via Facebook Messenger to receive transfer information.
In another post on Monday, Wanda's aunt noted that while many kind-hearted people have already joined their cause, they still have not reached the needed amount, urging, “Let’s help my girl; she was as beautiful inside as she was outside, and she deserves so much.”
Melanie Ortiz Zaldívar, Wanda's cousin, also called upon the community's generosity, encouraging people to join the cause and donate “whatever they can.” Ortiz pleaded, “My aunt, Bárbara Zaldívar Bueno, is all alone there, undocumented and desperate. Help, my friends, my cousin was the best person. Sharing this will help us greatly.”
Wanda Gertrudis Espinosa Zaldívar had arrived in the U.S. five years ago via Mexico, where she was held in a detention center before entering the United States. The unexpected passing of this young Cuban shattered the future plans and dreams she hoped to achieve after leaving Cuba in search of better opportunities.
Recently, another young Cuban's death also shook the Cuban community in Texas. Sheila Almenares, 24, residing in Houston, passed away last Wednesday after being in critical condition for several days due to severe injuries from a May 2nd traffic accident in Waco. According to her mother's account, the heartbreak from this tragic event led to her grandfather's subsequent death.
Understanding the Tragic Loss and Seeking Community Support
What led to the tragic accident involving Wanda Gertrudis Espinosa Zaldívar?
Wanda Gertrudis Espinosa Zaldívar was involved in a traffic accident in Austin, Texas, after leaving work. Her car was struck by another vehicle, resulting in her death and the death of two others.
How is Wanda's family coping with the financial burden of the cremation?
Wanda's family is reaching out to the Cuban community through social media, specifically Facebook, seeking donations to cover the cremation expenses as they lack sufficient funds.
What challenges does Wanda's mother face in the United States?
Wanda's mother, Bárbara Gertrudis Zaldívar Bueno, is an undocumented immigrant who recently arrived in the U.S. and is struggling financially to cover funeral costs.