A Cuban family residing in the United States is grappling with a dual crisis: the father's detention by immigration authorities and a preliminary cancer diagnosis for their young daughter. This distressing situation was reported by activist and journalist Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez on his Facebook page.
Rodríguez Sánchez described the family's ordeal as a reality that has "collapsed in just days." He has utilized his platform to raise awareness for the family's support campaign, which includes Yunior, his wife Anaily, and their daughter Ainhoa.
Approximately two months ago, Yunior was taken into custody by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), leaving Anaily without financial support while she was fully committed to caring for their child.
ICE Detentions Impact Cuban Families
Yunior's arrest by ICE exemplifies a broader issue affecting numerous Cuban families across the U.S. For more details on cases, laws, and resources, explore our Immigration section.
Without income, Anaily struggled to maintain their home or pay for their family vehicle, forcing her to move into "an extremely small space barely sufficient for her and her baby."
The situation worsened significantly when Ainhoa developed a fever. A pediatrician found a palpable mass between her liver and stomach, leading to an emergency referral to Nicklaus Children's Hospital, a renowned pediatric oncology center in Florida.
Initial tests suggested a diagnosis of neuroblastoma, a rare type of childhood cancer starting in immature nerve cells, particularly affecting infants and young children.
Staying by Ainhoa's side at the hospital around the clock, Anaily cannot work or earn an income, nor does she have a suitable home to return to once her daughter is discharged.
Legal and Financial Urgency
Alongside the medical crisis, Anaily faces an urgent immigration issue. She holds an I-220A status, a supervised release order from ICE that does not confer permanent residency, and has a court appearance scheduled for September, necessitating immediate legal representation. Meanwhile, Yunior needs specialized legal advice while in ICE custody to explore options for release or regularization.
This case is part of a severe wave of detentions impacting Cubans with I-220A status, who have been arrested even during routine supervision meetings. Reports indicate a staggering 463% increase in ICE detentions of Cubans between October 2024 and April 2026.
Similar incidents have been documented, including a Cuban mother with an I-220A and a three-year-old child detained in July. Legal experts have explained the broader implications for families with minors.
The GoFundMe campaign aims to cover immigration legal fees for both Yunior and Anaily, provide a safe living environment for Ainhoa’s recovery, and meet basic needs like food, diapers, and uncovered medical expenses.
"We deeply appreciate every donation, message of encouragement, and prayer for Ainhoa's swift recovery, Yunior's release, and Anaily's strength," concludes the plea shared by Rodríguez Sánchez.
Key Questions About Cuban Family Facing Immigration and Health Challenges
What is the current situation of the Cuban family in the U.S.?
The family is dealing with the father's detention by ICE and a preliminary cancer diagnosis for their young daughter, Ainhoa.
How has the detention by ICE affected the family?
Yunior's detention has left his wife Anaily without financial support, making it difficult for her to maintain their home and care for their daughter.
What medical condition has been diagnosed in Ainhoa?
Ainhoa has been preliminarily diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare childhood cancer affecting nerve cells.
How can people help the family?
Support can be provided through donations to their GoFundMe campaign, which will help cover legal fees, living expenses, and medical costs not covered by insurance.