CubaHeadlines

Former Model Finds Hope as Cubans Rally Against Her Addiction Battle

Friday, September 5, 2025 by Isabella Rojas

In a heartening display of community support, Cubans on the island have united to aid Zuyen García, a former model from Havana affectionately known as “La Flaca Buscaplata,” as she struggles against a severe drug addiction. Juanka, a YouTuber who runs the channel Vámonos con Juanka, successfully located Zuyen after several unsuccessful attempts on the streets of Havana. With the assistance of Zuyen's mother, Juanka, along with a group of supportive friends, visited her at home to offer emotional and physical support.

“I can’t share too many details, but trust me, I understood the situation,” Juanka wrote in a social media post. “We woke her up; she could barely walk due to a leg injury... but soon after, she seemed like a different person.”

A Visible Transformation and Renewed Hope

During their visit, Zuyen received donations of clothing and personal items, sparking an unexpected positive change in her demeanor. Juanka shared that she bathed willingly and regained her smile, a sight her close ones hadn’t witnessed in over a year.

“La Flaca was overjoyed with the gifts, and to my surprise, she was all dolled up like she hadn’t been in over a year. It was emotional!” Juanka exclaimed. Friends of the former model assisted with her personal care and provided emotional support. Zuyen’s mother expressed her deep gratitude to everyone involved in this effort to restore her daughter’s dignity and zest for life.

Moreover, Juanka revealed that a medical appointment has been arranged to begin a professional detoxification process. “The psychiatrist consultation will be held at the Boyeros Psychiatric Hospital,” he announced, appealing to anyone who could offer transportation for the appointment.

A Painful Past

Just days before, reports emerged about the dire state of Zuyen García, a mother to a young girl, whose image circulated on social media showing her in neglected conditions. This sparked widespread outrage and calls for compassion. Friends and family had previously raised their voices against the institutional neglect and stigmatization faced by many addicts in Cuba, where access to specialized treatment is limited and cases like Zuyen’s become viral jokes rather than receiving the necessary care.

Through the compassionate efforts of Juanka and Zuyen's friends, a hopeful new chapter is being written. Their actions illustrate how empathy and collective effort can profoundly impact someone who has hit rock bottom.

Questions About Zuyen García's Recovery Efforts

Who is Zuyen García?

Zuyen García is a former model from Havana, known as “La Flaca Buscaplata,” who is battling severe drug addiction.

What role did Juanka play in helping Zuyen?

Juanka, a YouTuber, located Zuyen with the help of her mother and friends, and initiated a support campaign that included emotional and physical aid.

What changes occurred during the visit to Zuyen?

Zuyen received clothing and personal items, which led to a positive change in her attitude, including bathing and smiling after a long time.

Why is there limited access to addiction treatment in Cuba?

Access to specialized addiction treatment in Cuba is limited due to institutional neglect and lack of resources, leading to inadequate care for those in need.

© CubaHeadlines 2025