The surgical procedure intended to correct the misplaced vertebra in Lester Domínguez's neck, a young man from Holguín viciously attacked with a machete in March 2023, has been repeatedly postponed. His recovery remains stalled, as shared by his father, Dennis Domínguez, on social media.
In his post, Dennis detailed that although all the necessary supplies for the surgery were acquired, delays occurred while waiting for additional materials from a relative. These delays were compounded by the subsequent collapse of Cuba's healthcare system.
"The surgery to address the misplaced vertebra in his neck could not be performed. It's unclear where the blame lies, whether with the family or the medical professionals," Dennis wrote.
Lester has been residing with his aunt in the Luz neighborhood of Holguín for over a year, where he benefits from better living conditions.
His father candidly admitted, "So far, I see no change or improvement in his progress."
Tragic Assault and Struggles for Justice
At the age of 16, Lester was assaulted with a machete in March 2023 by an attacker identified as Adrián Grass Bermúdez, who struck him in the neck to steal his cellphone. This brutal attack resulted in an incomplete C5 spinal cord injury, confining Lester to a wheelchair.
Despite overcoming mechanical ventilation, a tracheotomy, and bedsores, Lester remains a C5 patient with severe mobility constraints. By March 2026, three years post-attack, there was some improvement in his upper body, but he was still unable to walk.
Systemic Failures and Delays
The surgery to correct the inverted vertebra—crucial to prevent arthritis and enable rehabilitation progress—has faced multiple delays. In August 2025, doctors deemed Lester ready for surgery. By October, the family sought assistance to obtain an orthopedic Minerva, a critical device for the procedure.
However, in November, the operation was delayed again due to Hurricane Melissa, which damaged hospital infrastructure. By June 2026, the comprehensive collapse of Cuba's healthcare system had become yet another obstacle.
The family has been forced to independently secure supplies and medications due to the chronic shortages plaguing the island's hospitals, a stark reflection of the significant shortcomings of a healthcare system impaired by decades of poor management.
Legal Proceedings and Widespread Support
Adrián Grass Bermúdez, the assailant, was apprehended after Lester's phone was found buried in his yard. Prosecutors have requested a 20-year prison sentence for the attack, with an additional four years for stealing phones from other victims.
The case has sparked extensive solidarity both within Cuba and among the diaspora, including public support from boxer Yordenis Ugás, who has closely followed Lester's situation.
Dennis Domínguez concluded his post with a hopeful message after over three years of waiting and faith: "Let's hope he continues to improve, with the grace of God and the doctors, and all of you who have supported him in one way or another."
Understanding the Challenges in Lester's Recovery
Why was Lester's surgery postponed?
Lester's surgery was delayed due to a combination of logistical issues with acquiring materials and the overall collapse of Cuba's healthcare system, compounded by damage from Hurricane Melissa.
What injuries did Lester sustain from the attack?
Lester suffered an incomplete C5 spinal cord injury after being struck in the neck with a machete, which has left him with severe mobility limitations and confined to a wheelchair.
Who is Adrián Grass Bermúdez?
Adrián Grass Bermúdez is the individual who attacked Lester Domínguez in March 2023, targeting him in a robbery attempt. He has been detained and is facing significant legal charges.