Dayan Sotolongo, a young Cuban, has taken to social media with a video to address what he describes as defamatory campaigns against him. He explains the hurdles that have prevented him from leaving Cuba to undergo a much-needed surgery.
"I want to address a situation that has been developing for some time. Certain individuals are spreading false information about me, claiming that my condition is fake," Dayan begins in the video.
Dayan insists that his continued presence in Cuba is not due to a lack of effort on his part.
"The primary reason I'm still in this situation, unable to leave or proceed with my surgery and treatment, is that I have been denied exit from Cuba to Spain, where my treatments were being arranged, on three occasions," he states.
He further accuses individuals in Spain of defrauding him, though he refrains from providing further details.
Dayan also reveals that three GoFundMe campaigns initiated to raise funds for his treatment were eventually shut down, with donations refunded to the contributors.
Rejecting Profit Motives
Dayan firmly rejects accusations that he is exploiting his illness for financial gain.
"People are claiming that I'm using my illness to make money. I don't know if others are doing it with fake profiles, but I certainly am not," he insists.
He provides a glimpse into his economic struggles by showing the inside of his refrigerator: "If I were becoming a millionaire, as some say, look at my empty fridge with just bottles of water."
Dayan emphasizes that he receives no state assistance for his health condition. "In other places, the government helps the sick. I receive no assistance whatsoever," he explains.
He urges people to stop attacking him and invites those with doubts to contact him directly or visit him to see the reality of his situation. "I endure hunger like all Cubans," he adds.
A 21-Year-Old's Quest for Freedom
Dayan explains that he stopped making videos due to relentless attacks. "Many people were attacking me, and I wanted nothing to do with it. But now I'm making this video to clarify everything," he shares.
At 21, he expresses his desire to recover and live independently, rather than relying on donations.
"I don't want to profit from my illness. I'm only 21, and I want to be free, to work, to support my family, to have a home," he articulates.
He mentions that he cannot work due to pain and physical limitations, and his wife cannot work either, as she needs to care for him.
Dayan appeals for support: "Anyone who can help, please do. I really need it... I believe Cuba will be free in the powerful name of Jesus."
The Heartbreaking Tale of a Young Cuban
Dayan Sotolongo suffers from stage four lymphedema in both limbs, a severe condition he has struggled to treat in Cuba since childhood.
In recent years, he has reported bureaucratic obstacles preventing him from obtaining treatment in Spain.
Dayan has stated that the Ministry of Public Health has repeatedly denied him the document certifying that there is no cure for his condition in Cuba, which is necessary to apply for a humanitarian visa.
With a social pension of 1,500 Cuban pesos, Dayan has managed to survive thanks to the generosity of people sending food and money.
Last March, he received an electric scooter facilitated by activist Osvany Sánchez, also known as "Pesca en Miami," with support from influencer "El Explotao" and other collaborators.
He expressed his gratitude in a video at the time, explaining that he could only walk a block or a block and a half before becoming exhausted.
Amid fresh accusations and online attacks, Dayan reiterates his plea: do not doubt his illness and help him directly, without spreading defamation.
Understanding Dayan Sotolongo's Struggles
What condition does Dayan Sotolongo suffer from?
Dayan Sotolongo suffers from stage four lymphedema in both limbs, a serious health issue he has dealt with since childhood.
Why hasn't Dayan been able to leave Cuba for surgery?
Dayan has been denied exit from Cuba to Spain, where his treatments were arranged, on three occasions. Additionally, he lacks the necessary documentation to apply for a humanitarian visa.
Does Dayan receive any government assistance for his condition?
No, Dayan does not receive any government assistance for his condition, unlike in other countries where the government often helps those with severe health issues.