Ilsa Ramos, the wife of political prisoner Yasmany González Valdés, also known as "El Libre," has brought to light the dire situation she faces alone in Cuba. She is caring for her autistic son, whose episodes have become increasingly challenging to manage, while her husband remains jailed, unwell, and, according to family claims, without adequate medical care.
“My child, sadly, might end up hurting me because I can’t handle the constant beatings anymore; I lack the strength to endure this,” Ramos expressed in a Facebook video, showing scratches on her body. She described how her son hits, pinches her, and breaks things during his episodes.
The young boy has damaged the television, phone, and even the glass doors of their home. The caregiver who used to help has stopped after being attacked. Ramos' older son tries to assist in calming him, but is not always able to succeed.
The Struggle Grows Post-Arrest
The situation has become even more critical since González Valdés was imprisoned. Ramos explained that he was the best at calming their son. She recounted having to take her son to visit the Combinado del Este facility because she could not find anyone to watch him.
A psychiatrist recommended hospitalizing the child, but Ramos is hesitant due to the conditions of such facilities, describing them as a "hospital of horror." She lamented, “In Cuba, there is no therapy, there’s nothing.”
Lack of Basic Needs
The boy is also unable to attend school due to the lack of transportation and suitable conditions, according to his mother. He stays awake at night as they cannot obtain melatonin. This situation is worsened by frequent power outages and water supply issues. Ramos mentioned having to pay 5,000 pesos for a water tank.
The family’s anguish is deepened by the health condition of Yasmany González Valdés, serving a four-year sentence for "propaganda against the constitutional order" after being arrested in April 2023 for graffiti against the regime in Havana.
Health and Legal Struggles
Ramos recounted a recent visit where she found her husband with a high fever, lacking medication and the necessary prison medical care. “I don’t know how he is... because here they let the prisoners die,” she denounced.
In May 2026, González Valdés briefly enjoyed his first prison leave in three years, during which he released photos showing his physical decline. Shortly after, authorities revoked his leave and returned him to prison, a decision the Cultural Rights Observatory condemned as retaliation for exposing his condition.
Ramos admitted that the mounting pressure is severely impacting her emotional health. “I’m experiencing a very strong depression, very strong because every day… I don’t even bother to fix my hair anymore,” she shared. She confessed to taking antidepressants and feeling her strength depleting.
Escalation of Political Imprisonment in Cuba
This revelation comes at a time when Cuba is experiencing a record number of incarcerations for political reasons. According to Prisoners Defenders, there were 1,339 political prisoners on the island as of August 2026.
Exploring the Crisis of Political Prisoners in Cuba
What is the current situation of political prisoners in Cuba?
As of August 2026, there are 1,339 political prisoners in Cuba, highlighting a significant increase in incarceration for political reasons.
How is Yasmany González Valdés's health being managed in prison?
Yasmany González Valdés is reportedly not receiving adequate medical care in prison, as he suffers from a high fever and lacks necessary medications.
What challenges is Ilsa Ramos facing while caring for her autistic son?
Ilsa Ramos struggles with managing her son's violent episodes, lack of resources like melatonin, and basic needs such as water and transportation for school.