The story of Adriana, a 10-year-old girl from Guantánamo suffering from severe cerebral palsy and chronic malnutrition, has sparked an incredible wave of solidarity across social media. This outpouring of support quickly raised the necessary funds to provide her with a decent, well-equipped home.
Activist Ernesto Pérez Rodríguez, who shared Adriana's plight on Facebook, announced the triumph of the fundraising campaign on Thursday. Expressing his excitement, he revealed that they managed to gather 881,000 Cuban pesos (approximately $2,400) in record time. Of this amount, $2,200 was allocated to purchase a house situated near healthcare facilities in the city, marking a vital improvement for Adriana's health and well-being. The remaining $200 was used to buy a new refrigerator, a critical resource for preserving food and medication. "We'll deliver on Saturday," he stated.
Community Support and Donations
Beyond the home's purchase, the campaign also facilitated the acquisition of appliances, cash donations, and essential items from small businesses and charitable organizations like Jamaica Corazones Unidos. An appliance company in San Lino and Crombet donated a rice cooker and a multi-purpose pot; another small business in Carlos Manuel with 6 Norte contributed 20,000 Cuban pesos. A third entity, opting for anonymity, provided $80 and a rechargeable fan.
Joining the cause, the humanitarian group Jamaica Corazones Unidos, along with numerous individuals both domestically and internationally, contributed through national transfers and Zelle donations. Ernesto extended his gratitude to everyone involved, whether by donating, sharing the story, or amplifying awareness about Adriana's situation. He also assured continued support for the family to meet future needs.
Rapid Fundraising Success
Launched on Wednesday, the solidarity campaign amassed over 600,000 Cuban pesos, equivalent to $1,650, within just 24 hours, thanks to contributions via national transfers and international donations through Zelle. "Funds raised for the case of the girl from San Antonio (Adriana): we now have 606,000 pesos rounded (if anyone knows of a small house at that price, please contact me at my WhatsApp 56107779), equivalent to $1,650 in just 24 hours," Pérez had reported earlier.
The case deeply moved social media users. Adriana and her mother live in a precarious dwelling in the Acueducto community, San Antonio del Sur municipality, without access to specialized medical care, adequate nutrition, or institutional assistance.
According to Pérez Rodríguez's public complaint, the mother receives no social assistance or pension and must walk several kilometers to take her daughter to the hospital. Images circulated online highlighted Adriana's fragile health, prompting an immediate response from Cubans both on and off the island.
The official handover of the house is scheduled for this Saturday, and Pérez has vowed to continue supporting the family. This case has shed light on the institutional neglect faced by many households with disabled children in Cuba, while simultaneously demonstrating the tangible impact citizen mobilization can achieve when united for a humanitarian cause.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Support for Adriana
What were the main outcomes of the fundraising campaign for Adriana?
The campaign successfully raised enough funds to purchase a well-equipped home for Adriana and her family, as well as a new refrigerator essential for storing food and medication.
How quickly was the money raised for Adriana's case?
The funds were raised in record time, with over 600,000 Cuban pesos ($1,650) collected within just 24 hours from national and international donors.
Who contributed to Adriana's fundraising campaign?
Contributions came from small businesses, humanitarian organizations like Jamaica Corazones Unidos, and many individuals from both inside and outside of Cuba.