Cuban journalist Javier Díaz, a familiar face on Univision 23 News in Miami and a vocal critic of the Cuban regime from exile, has announced a temporary break from television due to health issues. Díaz revealed he has been diagnosed with a lumbar hernia.
In a heartfelt video shared this Wednesday on his Facebook profile, Díaz detailed a recent emergency room visit on Tuesday due to excruciating pain in his lower back, which left him nearly immobile for a full day. "Since last Tuesday, I had to rush to an emergency room here in Miami because of a severe pain in the lumbar region of my spine, which kept me practically immobile for 24 hours," recounted Díaz, who is now recovering at home.
Doctors discovered a hernia pressing against a nerve, causing significant discomfort. Díaz mentioned that he deliberately avoided sharing images of his hospital stay to prevent unnecessary alarm among his followers, opting to wait for a confirmed diagnosis before making a public statement.
Recovery and Future Plans
"I need to rest at home for several days. I can't walk much or sit for long periods until the inflammation in my spine subsides," he explained. Despite his current need for rest and anti-inflammatory treatment, the journalist is eager to return to broadcasting soon. "I hope to be back in the coming days, possibly by Sunday, hosting the 6 and 11 PM editions of Univision 23 News here in Miami," he stated.
With gratitude and honesty, Díaz admitted he was unaware of his condition and empathized with those who have experienced a similar ordeal. "Anyone suffering from a spinal hernia knows what this means when a crisis hits," he acknowledged.
A Message of Reassurance
Reassuring his audience, Díaz said, "I'm fine, still in some pain, but I wanted to come on here on my social media to share this message so you don't worry. Thank you all for your support."
Continued Critique of the Cuban Regime
Even in exile, Díaz has been relentless in criticizing the Cuban regime and exposing its falsehoods. He once described being born and living in Cuba as akin to being trapped in a cage, stating, "Only when the door is opened can you truly fly for the first time and spread your wings," a sentiment he shared on his social media.
He further elaborated, "Only a Cuban can understand what that means and how a system can subject an entire nation to the most absolute deception ever seen."
In another instance, Díaz reflected deeply on the meaning of freedom, contrasting his life before and after leaving the Caribbean nation. He posted a photo of the Parthenon in Greece, expressing that true comprehension of living in freedom comes when one can experience life beyond the constraints imposed by the Cuban regime.
Last November, he stated, "I am Cuban, I am 36 years old, and it's the first time in my life that I have voted for the president of a country in an election. I hope you understand the message," the Univision anchor emphasized on his Facebook profile.
He further asserted, "Those who ignore Cuba's reality are simply complicit in the dictatorship," highlighting his commitment to his profession and the responsibility he feels to denounce the Cuban regime, which he considers lacking in democracy.
Understanding Javier Díaz's Situation
What medical condition is Javier Díaz suffering from?
Javier Díaz has been diagnosed with a lumbar hernia, which is pressing against a nerve and causing him significant pain.
How is Díaz addressing his health issue?
Díaz is currently on medical leave, resting at home, and undergoing treatment with anti-inflammatory medications to reduce spine inflammation.
When does Javier Díaz plan to return to television?
He hopes to resume his role at Univision 23 News in the upcoming days, potentially by Sunday, for the 6 and 11 PM editions.