Spanish artist Wayota OD, who relocated to Cuba at the beginning of March, has announced via social media that he plans to return to Spain following a serious health issue. In a brief 19-second video shared on both TikTok and Instagram, the young artist explained that he urgently requires surgery after experiencing a health setback linked to a previous stroke he suffered years ago. "I'm heading back to Spain. I had a relapse. As many of you know, I suffered a stroke years ago, and a few days ago I had a crisis. I urgently need surgery. I'm unsure what might happen to me. I haven't left yet, but I already want to go back. I found something unique here in Cuba. Please keep me in your thoughts. See you soon, my friends," he stated on his social media, where he also asked if people thought he was making the right decision.
His message sparked a strong reaction on social media, particularly on TikTok, where numerous users criticized the Cuban healthcare system's conditions. Comments pointed out the lack of medications and resources: "In Cuba, there's not even aspirin," "Cuba has good doctors, but without medicine, what can they do?" "They lack the means to practice their profession," "That was before," "But Cuba supposedly has the best healthcare in the world. That's what the communists say."
Others expressed skepticism or direct criticism regarding his decision to return to Europe: "Now that he needs the healthcare that we pay for, he's going back," "When you need medicine, you abandon socialism," "We don't like Spain, but when we need something, we sure do," "His relapse happened earlier, when he got the bright idea to move to Cuba."
Supportive messages were also prevalent. Some users wished him luck with the surgery and a swift recovery. Phrases like "May God protect and bless you," "Health first," "Stay strong, brother, Yemayá is with you," "That's what his family has contributed for. All Spaniards have the same rights," were echoed among the supportive comments.
On Instagram, the post generated similar reactions. Some expressed disbelief or irony about his change of plans: "Get operated on in Cuba, it's free," "He got cold feet, buddy," "That's because they cut off his internet," "You're leaving because you realized the reality of Cuba. The end," "Can't afford the monthly data, go on," "Couldn't handle ETECSA's pressure." Others joked that "The mosquitoes were already giving him a concert with karaoke" or that "He put up with it long enough." Conversely, there were those who sent encouraging words: "Safe travels, take care of your health," "We're waiting for you with open arms," "Cuba will always await you," "A thousand blessings. I think it's the best choice."
Wayota OD arrived in Cuba in early March. Shortly after his arrival, he experienced a 48-hour blackout in Havana, an event he described as leaving him wondering how Cubans managed. This initial period coincided with a widespread electrical collapse that left millions in the country without service.
A month later, he declared he had no regrets about moving to the island. "I decided to leave everything behind to move to the island of blackouts to create my own music," he said at the time. He also stated, "No matter what happens, I'm not going to regret it," in a video celebrating the completion of his album after his first month in Cuba.
During his stay, he reported being a victim of a scam during a night out, where he claimed a woman stole his money and belongings. He has shared snippets of his daily life, the creative process of his album, and personal reflections about his time on the island on social media.
In his latest post, he did not specify the location where he will undergo surgery but did mention the need to "finish closing the malformation in my head" and that he has "an embolization pending." He did not provide further medical details, though he has responded to numerous comments, thanking followers for their support with phrases like "Fleje thanks" or "Thank you, buddy."
Wayota OD's Health and Return to Spain: Key Questions
Why is Wayota OD returning to Spain?
Wayota OD is returning to Spain due to a health crisis that requires urgent surgery linked to a previous stroke.
What was the reaction on social media to his announcement?
His announcement received mixed reactions, with some criticizing the Cuban healthcare system and others offering support and well-wishes for his recovery.