A newborn in Holguín has overcome a severe congenital defect and, after receiving specialized medical care for several weeks, has finally returned home with her family. The baby was born with gastroschisis, a rare condition where the intestines are outside the abdomen, requiring immediate surgery and intensive care.
Neonatologist Dr. Augusto Pérez Berbén shared the story on Facebook, highlighting the collaborative effort of obstetricians from Lenin Hospital, neonatologists from Lenin and the Regional Center for Neonatal Surgery at Holguín's Pediatric Hospital, along with pediatric surgeons, anesthesiologists, radiologists, cardiologists, and nursing staff. "Science played its part, but it was the silent art of tender care that wove her recovery day by day," he wrote.
Despite the severe crisis that healthcare facilities in Cuba are currently facing, the newborn was welcomed by a team that combined technical skill and compassion. After weeks of surgeries, intensive monitoring, and constant care, she can now begin her life in the warmth of her home.
"Her body has healed, but she has also left invisible marks on those who accompanied her journey. In her parents, who learned to wait with faith, and in the neonatology professionals, who not only heal but embrace with knowledge and compassion," the specialist added.
The family expressed their gratitude to the staff who made this miracle possible, emphasizing that medicine is not just about technique but also humanity, connection, and presence. For them, each medical discharge is more than just a procedure: it is a celebration of life persevering in a nation that is increasingly collapsing.
Despite facing one of the worst economic crises in its history, a situation exacerbated by the regime's mismanagement severely impacting basic services, Cuba's healthcare system still achieves remarkable medical miracles, largely due to the dedication of many Cuban doctors making a difference.
In Havana, an 18-year-old underwent an 11-hour surgery to correct a severe spinal deformity, a major challenge given the hospital system's limitations. Just days prior, a sports coach regained his voice after surviving a lightning strike that damaged his vocal cords and several internal organs. There was also the case of an 80-year-old man who underwent an unprecedented spinal surgery for his age and the complexity of the procedure. Additionally, a teenager had a rare brain cyst removed at Holguín's pediatric hospital, showcasing once again the ability of some medical teams to perform with precision under adverse conditions.
Understanding Congenital Conditions and Medical Miracles in Cuba
What is gastroschisis?
Gastroschisis is a rare congenital defect in which a baby's intestines are found outside of the body, exiting through a hole beside the belly button. It requires immediate surgical intervention after birth.
How does Cuba's healthcare system manage to perform complex surgeries amid a crisis?
Despite severe economic challenges, Cuba's healthcare system occasionally accomplishes complex medical procedures due to the dedication and professional commitment of its medical staff, who continue to strive for excellence under difficult conditions.
What other medical miracles have occurred in Cuba recently?
Recent medical achievements in Cuba include an 11-hour spinal surgery on a young adult, a sports coach regaining his voice after a lightning strike, and an elderly man undergoing a complex spinal operation, among others.