A community-driven solidarity campaign successfully amassed 45,000 Cuban pesos to aid Yosuán, a child from Cárdenas, Matanzas, suffering from cerebral palsy.
This past Tuesday, activist Christian Arbolaez announced the triumphant conclusion of this initiative via the Facebook group "Cardenenses en Facebook," a highly active digital community dedicated to highlighting local issues and assisting vulnerable residents.
The funds were directly handed over to Yosuán and his mother, Kelmys, who devotes her life entirely to her son's care.
Generous Contributions and Essential Supplies
In addition to the money, the family received several packages containing diapers, food, and other essential supplies delivered to their home throughout the campaign.
"Alongside the financial aid, numerous packages of diapers, food, and other support were provided to ease their challenging situation," Arbolaez shared while announcing the outcome.
The activist praised the donors, those who personally delivered the supplies, and those who amplified the cause through social media sharing.
Highlighting a Widespread Issue
"Every donation, every received package, and every shared post meant the world to this family," Arbolaez emphasized.
Yosuán's case underscores a widespread issue in Cuba: families with children who have cerebral palsy often rely on digital solidarity networks to secure essentials like diapers, medications, and basic food supplies that the state system fails to provide.
Children with this condition require multiple diapers daily, a product that remains scarce on the island.
Continuing a Legacy of Support
Arbolaez has coordinated numerous similar initiatives through the "Cardenenses en Facebook" group.
In April, he organized emergency donations for a mother of five facing starvation in Cárdenas, accepting contributions in Cuban pesos and via Zelle from abroad.
Similarly, in January 2025, his efforts helped Israel Daniel, a child from Matanzas with a brain tumor, receive aid and recover following a successful surgery.
Tragic Consequences and the Power of Solidarity
The ongoing crisis, where the regime fails to meet the population's needs, has tragically claimed the lives of young ones with cerebral palsy. In numerous instances, solidarity has prevailed.
In November 2025, young Nabila succumbed partly due to a lack of access to Clobazam, a crucial anticonvulsant for many cerebral palsy patients.
Furthermore, in May of the same year, Adriana, a child from Guantánamo suffering from cerebral palsy and chronic malnutrition, received support after a social media campaign raised 881,000 Cuban pesos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Support for Cuban Children with Cerebral Palsy
How are funds and supplies collected for children like Yosuán?
Funds and supplies are gathered through community-driven campaigns on social media platforms, where individuals contribute money and essential items.
What challenges do families with children suffering from cerebral palsy face in Cuba?
These families often struggle to obtain basic needs like diapers, medications, and food due to the state's inability to provide adequate support.
Who is Christian Arbolaez, and what role does he play?
Christian Arbolaez is an activist who coordinates support campaigns for vulnerable families in Cárdenas through the Facebook group "Cardenenses en Facebook."