Prominent Cardiologist Enrique Sanabria, First Doctor of Science from Cárdenas, Passes Away at 98

Enrique Sanabria, a renowned cardiologist from Cárdenas and the first Doctor of Science from this city in Matanzas, has passed away at the age of 98. The news was shared on social media by those close to him. "With deep sorrow, we have learned of the passing of Dr. Enrique Sanabria, an eminent cardiologist and a distinguished son of our city. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and to all who were part of his glorious life," a user posted on the "Cardenenses en Facebook" group, where hundreds expressed their condolences.

Christian Arbolaez, who had a personal connection with Sanabria, shared his grief upon hearing the news. "Just a few days ago, Dr. Enrique Sanabria's name was celebrated in the streets of Cárdenas and Lagunillas as a blessing. We celebrated his existence, his 98 years of life, his medical and humanitarian legacy. I wrote a tribute to him with the respect and admiration his story deserves, not knowing it would be my farewell. Today, with sadness, I write another, very different one: announcing his passing," he stated in his farewell message.

Born on May 18, 1927, in Lagunillas, Enrique Sanabria pursued his medical degree, specializing in cardiology. As he once told the local press, he commuted daily to attend school. Later, he moved to the capital to enroll in the medical program, graduating in 1957. From 1959 until his retirement in 2008, he worked at the Cárdenas Hospital.

Dr. Sanabria was credited with numerous scientific publications and a reputation that extended beyond his hometown of Cárdenas. "His clinic in Cárdenas was a beacon of excellence, providing care to all with equal dedication, regardless of social status. He trained countless colleagues through his clinical practice, combining wisdom with humility. His humanistic approach inspired future doctors," recalled the Cuban Society of Internal Medicine.

Messages of condolence highlighted that Sanabria's medical education was made possible by his family's sacrifices. His students remember him as an outstanding professor and a kind individual: "Rest in peace, my excellent professor, the most capable, a teacher to many, cardiologist to all. My condolences to family and friends; we mourn this loss with deep sadness. To you, Dr. Sanabria, a hug to the heavens or wherever you may be," one person shared.

"Dear doctor, you restored my daughter's health when she was young, and later became her professor. Thank you for being such a noble person, blessings to heaven," another individual expressed.

This month also saw the passing of Dr. Armando Caballero López, a respected surgeon and intensivist at the "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Clinical Surgical Hospital in Santa Clara. The Provincial Health Directorate of Villa Clara paid tribute to the esteemed specialist, describing him as "an exceptional doctor, an admirable human being, and a fundamental pillar" of the province's main hospital.

Caballero López dedicated his life to medical care and the training of new generations of physicians. He was known for his unwavering commitment to his patients' health, as well as his warmth, listening skills, and empathy with those who sought his care.