A Cuban woman living in Italy, known on TikTok as Iris (@amymodo2), recently shared a video detailing the shock she experienced upon welcoming her 65-year-old father after a year apart. To her dismay, he appeared significantly frail and underweight, with an estimated weight loss of about 44 pounds.
What makes this account particularly striking is that her father is not part of the most vulnerable demographic in Cuba. Despite monthly online grocery deliveries that arrive within two days, running his own business on the island, and always having a stocked refrigerator, his physical decline was alarming.
"He arrived last night," she recounted, "I want to tell you all that he came in an utterly devastated state, I believe he lost around 44 pounds, incredibly thin, completely worn out."
Understanding the Impact of Cuba's Crisis on Its Citizens
How has the economic situation in Cuba affected its citizens?
Cuba's economic situation has led to shortages and increased hardship, affecting even those who are not in the most vulnerable groups. Many citizens face challenges in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, leading to conditions such as significant weight loss.
What measures are individuals taking to support family in Cuba?
Many Cubans living abroad, like Iris, are providing support through monthly online purchases and financial aid to help their families cope with the difficult living conditions on the island.