Introduction to the Funeral
A funeral is being held for a Cuban boy whose medical case drew national attention and launched an intense fundraising campaign to get him to Miami.
The Boy’s Medical Condition
Ten-year-old Damir Ortiz died on April 5 at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital less than a month after obtaining a humanitarian visa to travel to Miami for treatment. The child had been battling type 1 neurofibromatosis, a rare genetic condition that causes tumors on nerve tissue.
Efforts to Get Treatment
His mother took to social media to confront the Cuban Ministry of Public Health in her efforts to get her son the treatment he needed, which she said was not available on the island. After facing significant delays and setbacks in Cuba, Ortiz and his mom were finally able to get to the U.S. More than $45,000 was raised in less than 24 hours for his transportation.
Challenges Faced in the US
According to a family friend, the child arrived in the U.S. with bacterial infections, which worsened his condition. "Damir died here in the United States," said Diasniurka Salcedo, a friend of the family in Spanish. "Yes, he died here, but with excellent treatment, with the treatment he should have received in our country. The only ones to blame for Damir not being with us today is called the communist system."
Aftermath and Legacy
According to someone close to the Ortiz family, the child’s ashes will remain in South Florida along with his mom who’s asked for political asylum.
Conclusion
The funeral of Damir Ortiz is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those seeking medical treatment outside of their home country. The outpouring of support for Damir and his family is a testament to the kindness and generosity of strangers. While Damir’s story ended in tragedy, it highlights the importance of access to quality medical care and the need for compassion and understanding in the face of adversity.
FAQs
- What was the cause of Damir Ortiz’s death?
Damir Ortiz died from complications related to type 1 neurofibromatosis, a rare genetic condition that causes tumors on nerve tissue. - How much money was raised for Damir’s transportation to the US?
More than $45,000 was raised in less than 24 hours for his transportation. - What will happen to Damir’s ashes?
According to someone close to the Ortiz family, the child’s ashes will remain in South Florida. - Has Damir’s mom asked for political asylum?
Yes, Damir’s mom has asked for political asylum and will remain in South Florida with her son’s ashes.
