A young girl named Nashly, from Sancti Spíritus, is in urgent need of Aveeno cream to manage Lamellar Ichthyosis, a rare genetic skin disorder that poses significant health risks and has no definitive cure.
In a heartfelt plea on Facebook, Nashly's family and friends have reached out for assistance in obtaining the cream, which is unavailable in Cuba and must be sourced from abroad.
The social media post highlights the severity of Nashly's condition: "This little girl suffers from Lamellar Ichthyosis, a disease that causes thick scaling and extreme skin dryness, increasing the risk of dehydration, respiratory issues, and infections."
This genetic disorder, present from birth, chronically compromises the skin barrier, with no curative treatment available. Management relies solely on the continuous application of emollients and moisturizers, frequent bathing, and maintaining a humid environment.
Cuban medical publications found on SciELO state, "There is no successful treatment" for this condition, and historically, the island's approach has been limited to sterile vaseline, inert oils, and emollient ointments applied every four to six hours.
For Nashly, doctors have specifically recommended Aveeno cream, an emollient containing colloidal oatmeal that relieves extreme dryness and itching in sensitive skin.
"This product is essential for her treatment, yet unfortunately, it is unavailable in Cuba and must be purchased from abroad," the post explains.
The family cannot bear the cost or logistics of importing the cream on their own, prompting them to turn to social media to broaden their plea and find individuals capable of sourcing or donating the cream from outside the island.
"We urgently need help to support this little princess, whose only reward for those who aid her is a sincere kiss and smile," the message conveys.
The plea also includes a practical note for those wishing to help but unable to send the cream: it explicitly asks not to use the "Sad" reaction on Facebook, as this reduces the post's visibility in the platform's algorithm.
Nashly's situation is not unique. In September 2023, another Cuban family sought help for a child with a chronic skin condition who also couldn't access treatment through the public health system, highlighting a recurring issue among Cuban families with children suffering from rare diseases.
The chronic shortage of medications and medical supplies in Cuba, compounded by the economic crisis perpetuated by the regime over decades, renders over-the-counter products in other countries—such as an emollient cream—unattainable for countless families on the island.
Challenges in Accessing Medical Supplies in Cuba
What is Lamellar Ichthyosis?
Lamellar Ichthyosis is a rare genetic skin disorder characterized by thick scales and extreme dryness of the skin, leading to various health risks such as dehydration and infections.
Why is Aveeno cream necessary for Nashly?
Doctors have recommended Aveeno cream for Nashly because it contains colloidal oatmeal, which helps relieve extreme dryness and itching in sensitive skin, crucial for managing her condition.
How can people help Nashly?
People can help Nashly by sourcing or donating Aveeno cream from abroad, as it is not available in Cuba. Spreading the word through social media can also increase the chances of finding assistance.