An inspiring story has captured the hearts of many as 87-year-old Cuban grandmother, Perla, recently arrived in Tenerife, has become a viral sensation on social media. For Perla, simple experiences such as seeing ice cream and sweets in a supermarket are moments of rediscovery, things she hadn't witnessed for over fifty years due to the severe shortages and deprivations in Cuba.
Her journey brought her to the popular show "Hoy en Día" on Canal Sur alongside her grandson. Even the presenters were moved to tears by Perla's story of resilience and personal triumph. The viral TikTok videos showcasing Perla's new experiences, like her delight at seeing an ice cream cone reminiscent of her childhood, different-sized pizzas, and an array of sweets, have resonated with many. They highlight the stark contrast between life in Cuba, where many endure poverty and hunger, and the opportunities available beyond the island.
Perla's Emotional Journey and New Beginnings
During the show, one of the presenters, expressing admiration for the Cuban people, stated, "I have been to Cuba four times, and the Cuban people are the strongest, most resilient, and most determined people I have ever met." Perla wholeheartedly agreed with this sentiment.
When asked about her well-being, she beamed, "I've been doing great since I got here. I feel wonderful in terms of health, spirit, and everything." Despite her new surroundings, Perla fondly remembers the family she left behind in Cuba, ensuring she doesn't forget anyone, including her neighbors.
An Unforgettable Experience in Spain
Asked if she plans to stay, she replied with a smile, "I think so, because I feel very good here." When questioned about what she misses from Cuba and what she loves about Spain, she found it difficult to choose: "I love everything here, I can't pick just one thing."
Perla is overwhelmed by the affection she's received in Spain, something she never anticipated as "an insignificant seamstress from the old days." She expressed, "I feel like I've been here my whole life." Despite becoming a widow at a young age, Perla raised her three daughters through sheer determination and hard work. She built her modest home in Havana with her own hands, often sending her daughters to school with instructions to collect anything they found on the streets that could be useful for construction, from nails to bits of brick.
Understanding Perla's Story and Cuban Life
What made Perla's story go viral on social media?
Perla's story resonated with many because it highlights her rediscovery of everyday experiences that many take for granted, such as seeing ice cream and sweets, after decades of living in scarcity in Cuba.
How did Perla's appearance on Spanish television affect viewers?
Her appearance on the show moved both the presenters and the audience to tears, as her story of resilience and new beginnings was both inspiring and poignant.
What are some of the challenges Perla faced while living in Cuba?
Perla faced significant challenges, including raising her daughters as a widow and building her home with limited resources, often relying on found materials.