Daibelis Veloz López, a 26-year-old mother, endured a harrowing battle for survival after a complicated childbirth that led to multiple surgeries and uncontrollable bleeding at the Abel Santamaría provincial hospital in Pinar del Río. Now back home, she is recovering with her twin sons, Dairon and Darío, whose presence fueled her relentless fight, as reported by the newspaper Guerrillero.
Her ordeal began in October when she was admitted to the hospital due to her twin pregnancy. A series of complications ensued, starting with an urgent surgery at 20 weeks of gestation and exacerbated by preeclampsia and persistent bleeding, necessitating multiple surgeries and extreme treatments.
Just three days after being discharged with her newborns, Veloz experienced a massive hemorrhage at her home in the Loma del Ganso community, requiring an emergency return to the hospital. "I only remember my husband shouting at me not to close my eyes," she recounted.
Her condition deteriorated in the following days, leading to numerous surgeries and continuous blood loss. Over three months, Veloz relied on transfusions—up to 21 a day—emergency interventions, and the support of family, friends, and anonymous blood donors. Though a definitive diagnosis remains elusive, a severe coagulation disorder is suspected but cannot be confirmed for several months.
The medical team faced tough decisions, employing innovative treatments, consulting specialists, and sharing medical literature to manage the bleeding. Veloz, though conscious most of the time, faced moments of despair. "I cried thinking I would never see my twins again," she admitted, emotionally moved.
Currently, she is recovering at home, with a wound that will take at least six months to heal. While she cannot yet hold her babies, she is surrounded by family and grateful for the support she received during this challenging journey. Her story is one of resilience, family support, and maternal love, demonstrating that life can be won moment by moment.
Journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso praised Daibelis's strength and the medical team's efforts in a Facebook post, expressing admiration for the young mother who survived one of life's most extreme challenges. "Daibelis's strength is impressive. So is that of those who cared for her. Much life to you, dear cousin," he wrote, joining others in expressing support and admiration.
These tales of complicated births in Cuba highlight not only the fragility of the healthcare system but also the tenacity of mothers, families, and medical personnel in critical circumstances. In Sancti Spíritus, twin girls survived after being born at just 28 weeks, weighing less than a kilogram. Intensive care for weeks was crucial for their recovery.
Similarly, in Havana, a mother faced the challenge of premature delivery at just 29 weeks. The urgency of the situation required immediate medical response. Although both mother and child faced severe risks, they overcame initial dangers and are recovering well with specialized care.
An inspiring story from Cienfuegos involved a newborn who underwent emergency surgery for a severe intestinal obstruction shortly after birth. The successful procedure was vital, preventing potential irreversible complications and ensuring the child's recovery.
Key Questions About Medical Challenges in Cuba
What were the initial complications Daibelis faced during her pregnancy?
Daibelis faced urgent surgery at 20 weeks of gestation, preeclampsia, and persistent bleeding that required multiple surgeries.
How did the medical team handle Daibelis's condition?
The medical team made difficult decisions, used innovative treatments, consulted specialists, and shared medical literature to manage her bleeding.
What role did the community play in Daibelis's survival?
Family, friends, and anonymous donors provided crucial support, including blood donations, during her recovery.
What other birth-related challenges have been reported in Cuba?
Other reports include premature births in Sancti Spíritus and Havana, as well as an emergency surgery for a newborn in Cienfuegos, all highlighting the resilience of families and medical teams.