On Saturday, a Cuban mother issued an urgent plea from the Luis Mario Cruz Pediatric Hospital in Banes, located in Holguín province. She is desperately seeking medication for her youngest child, who has been diagnosed with epilepsy and Wells syndrome.
Identified as Yanislen Pérez, the mother is currently staying at the hospital with her two children who are both admitted. She is in need of Sodium Valproate.
The youngest child, Jancel, who is just one year old, suffers from epilepsy and has lost his vision due to his condition, as shared by activist Yenier Toledano Torres on Facebook.
The older son, Alejandro, aged seven, is also hospitalized, dealing with fever and vomiting.
"URGENT - PLEASE SHARE Today, I received a message from a desperate mother at the Banes pediatric hospital. Yanislen Pérez urgently needs Sodium Valproate for her son Jancel, who suffers from Wells syndrome and epilepsy. If anyone can assist, please visit the hospital, respiratory ward, beds 6 and 7," posted Toledano Torres on social media.
The medication, commercially known as Sodium Valproate or Depakene, is crucial for controlling epileptic seizures.
In Cuba, the scarcity of this medication has left countless patients without treatment, prompting frequent calls for help on social media and within local communities.
According to the shared information, those who can offer assistance are encouraged to visit the Banes pediatric hospital's respiratory ward or contact the mother at her address: Calle Azucena #23, Banes, Holguín.
The post has been shared by numerous users urging solidarity with the family and highlighting the deterioration of the public health system, where basic medications are lacking even for treating chronic illnesses in children.
Urgent Need for Epilepsy Medication in Cuba
Why is Sodium Valproate important for epileptic patients?
Sodium Valproate is essential for controlling seizures in patients with epilepsy, helping to stabilize their condition and improve quality of life.
What challenges are faced by the Cuban healthcare system?
The Cuban healthcare system struggles with shortages of basic medications, impacting the treatment of chronic diseases and leading to frequent calls for outside assistance.
How can individuals help families in need of medication in Cuba?
Individuals can assist by donating medications or funds, visiting hospitals to offer support, and spreading awareness of the shortages and needs through social media and other platforms.