Renowned Cuban actor Luis Alberto García has issued a heartfelt plea for assistance in acquiring three critical medications for a sick child in Cuba. This call to action has sparked a wave of support from individuals both on the island and abroad.
In a Facebook post, García reached out to his fellow Cubans: "Hey Cuban folks, we have a situation with a little boy who desperately needs three medications that sound quite unusual to me. I suspect they might be strictly controlled. From what I've gathered, they are unavailable in Cuba. Here are the names, just in case a miracle can happen: Mercaptopurine, Methotrexate, and Ondansetron."
The post quickly amassed over a hundred comments and numerous expressions of solidarity, as users pledged to assist the child or provided information about the drugs.
Among the first to respond was activist Lara Crofs, who stated, "Call me, I have two," referring to the medications she had on hand.
Additional users chimed in with offers of help and medical insights. One person commented, "The actor Luis Alberto posted this number for the delivery of the medication. Jorge Antonio Noda, could you please get in touch for the Ondansetron? Thanks a million, kind soul."
Several users elaborated on the medications' purposes. "The first two are cytostatics, and the third is an antiemetic used to prevent vomiting during chemo," explained one user, while another noted that "Ondansetron or Sofran is used in oncology before and after the administration of intravenous fluids."
Generosity poured in from both within and outside the country. "Tell me where to send it. It expires in May 2026, and I only have 10 pills. Let me know whom to send it to," wrote someone from abroad.
Personal stories emerged, highlighting the harsh realities faced by Cubans: "My child in Cuba would always receive Ondansetron when undergoing chemotherapy. He was an oncology patient. Sadly, I lost my little one last year. They should check the oncology wards; those medications are controlled for patients," shared a mother.
García himself engaged in the discussion, inquiring, "What is AICA?" after someone informed him that Ondansetron is produced by the Cuban pharmaceutical labs AICA, located in Havana.
Amid the supportive messages, there were reflections on the country's healthcare crisis. "What would this nation be without its people?" wrote one user, referring to the solidarity prompted by the actor's request.
The Widespread Medication Shortage
This situation highlights the ongoing shortage of essential medications in Cuba, leading to countless cries for help on social media. Just days ago, a Cuban mother sought assistance from the Banes pediatric hospital to obtain Sodium Valproate for her epileptic child, who has been diagnosed with Wells syndrome.
In the absence of pharmaceutical solutions, some citizens have resorted to natural remedies. A young Cuban woman shared on social media how she prepares a papaya leaf concoction to ease chikungunya symptoms, given the complete lack of medicines in pharmacies and hospitals.
The health authorities themselves have acknowledged the system's fragility. In a recent TV appearance, the Ministry of Public Health advised "covering the body" as a preventive measure against dengue and chikungunya outbreaks, underscoring the scarcity of basic resources and supplies in the nation.
Luis Alberto García's appeal not only seeks medication but also reignites the conversation about the dire healthcare conditions Cubans face. In a country where hospitals lack supplies and treatments often rely on the goodwill of fellow citizens, each act of solidarity becomes a beacon of collective hope.
Current Challenges in Cuban Healthcare
What medications are being sought for the sick child in Cuba?
The medications needed are Mercaptopurine, Methotrexate, and Ondansetron.
Why is there a medication shortage in Cuba?
The medication shortage in Cuba is due to systemic issues within the healthcare system, including a lack of resources and supplies, exacerbated by the country's economic situation.
How are people in Cuba coping with the lack of medications?
Many Cubans are turning to natural remedies or relying on the goodwill of others to obtain necessary medications, as pharmaceuticals are scarce in both pharmacies and hospitals.