The tragic passing of Claudia Mesa Rodríguez, a spirited 15-year-old from Santiago de Cuba, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about her treatment at the North Children's Hospital, commonly referred to as "La Ondi."
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada brought attention to the case, having spoken with the family and tracked Claudia's condition since her critical admission to the hospital.
Described as joyful and energetic, Claudia enjoyed a weekend with friends at the river, with no indication that she would soon be in a battle for her life, according to Mayeta Labrada.
By Wednesday, her health deteriorated as she struggled to breathe, prompting her transfer to the hospital. It was there she was diagnosed with diabetes and a virus, which had also afflicted other family members.
Despite receiving medical attention, significant doubts linger over the care she received during those harrowing three days.
Reports to Mayeta Labrada indicated delays in care, inadequate resources for patient transport, forcing family members to carry her, and failed attempts to manage her kidney function despite medical interventions. Sadly, Claudia did not survive her final critical episode.
"Many questions remain unanswered," wrote the journalist, capturing the family's turmoil as they question the events at the hospital and ponder if more could have been done to save her.
In a country where the healthcare system is plagued by a lack of resources, malfunctioning equipment, and shortages of supplies, Claudia's death underscores the dire situation facing Cuban health services.
Mayeta Labrada also revealed that he received the first alert about Claudia at 9:47 p.m. on Wednesday, when a family member reached out in distress, pleading for public awareness and support.
"I never imagined that message would be the last glimmer of hope, nor that the young girl would be Claudia," he mourned. "The initial message was a call for help; this one seeks solace."
Claudia's funeral took place on Saturday at the Santiago de Cuba funeral home. Initially set for the afternoon, her burial was moved to 10 a.m. due to the body's condition, as shared by her relatives.
Concerns About Cuban Healthcare System
What were the main issues faced in Claudia's medical care?
Claudia's care was marred by delays in treatment, lack of necessary equipment to transport her, and ineffective medical procedures to manage her kidney issues.
How does Claudia's case reflect on the Cuban healthcare system?
Her death highlights the systemic issues within the Cuban healthcare system, including resource scarcity, broken equipment, and supply shortages.