Cuban comedian and actor Ulises Toirac shared an emotional message on Facebook this Monday, expressing gratitude to the surgical team at Havana's Manuel Fajardo Hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care. He praised their dedication and professionalism despite the ongoing power outages and hardships plaguing Cuba.
Toirac, who deals with a range of health issues—including asthma and problems with his vision, hearing, and spine—emphasized that his extensive experience with the healthcare system allows him to speak authoritatively about Cuban doctors and nurses.
The core of his message acknowledged the commitment of healthcare professionals who face the same challenges as the general population without abandoning their calling.
A Tribute to Dedication
"Cuban doctors, including this group of surgeons, are devoted and thoroughly professional. People of intellect," he stated.
"They go to their hospitals, wards, and patients during the same blackouts as the rest of us, often using the same transportation, and enduring the same struggles. No complaints, no bitterness, no mistreatment," Toirac wrote.
The comedian highlighted that these professionals continue to care for their patients "with a smile and determination" that elicits both astonishment and gratitude when one observes, as he put it, "the full picture."
Personal Acknowledgment
He also offered special words for Dr. Juana María Velázquez, whom he regards as "family, without reservations," owing to their longstanding relationship and her talent and kindness.
Although his message does not directly criticize the regime, it does shed light on the challenging conditions under which Cuban doctors work and acknowledges their ability to prioritize their vocation and humanitarian spirit over personal interests.
"More than the saying 'Honoring brings honor'—because I do not seek to feel honored—I am driven by the recognition of people whose talent, knowledge, and sacrifice continue to affirm their humanitarian spirit above personal interests," he expressed.
Toirac concluded his post with a brief and powerful statement: "That was it... my reverence. And my eternal gratitude."
The Broader Context of a Struggling System
This tribute takes on particular significance amidst the severe decline of the Cuban healthcare system. Hospitals on the island have experienced power outages lasting up to 20 hours daily, while over 96,000 people await surgeries, including approximately 11,000 children.
Official statistics indicate that Cuba lost 30,767 doctors between 2021 and 2024, dropping from 106,131 registered physicians to 75,364, further weakening the country's medical capacity.
Toirac is no stranger to criticism of Cuba's crisis. In June, he described the country as a "maze with no solution" and condemned the lack of medications and healthcare professionals.
In December 2025, he also questioned the authorities' inaction regarding deaths linked to the epidemiological crisis. The artist himself contracted chikungunya in November and later reported that the illness continued to affect his neck, shoulders, and spine.
Understanding Challenges in Cuban Healthcare
What challenges are Cuban doctors facing?
Cuban doctors are working under severe conditions, including frequent power outages, limited transportation options, and a lack of resources, all of which compound the challenges of delivering healthcare.
How has the healthcare system in Cuba deteriorated?
The healthcare system in Cuba has been weakened by a significant reduction in the number of doctors, with over 30,000 leaving the system, and by power outages that have drastically impacted hospital operations.