Cuban Father Fights for Life After Tragic Sea Accident; Family Seeks Help

Gulf Coast Medical Center, Fort Myers, Florida, USA - Frank, a 30-year-old father of two from Florida, faces an uphill battle after suffering a severe spinal cord injury during a family outing. The Cuban native, who moved from Miami in search of a better life, jumped into shallow water, resulting in catastrophic injuries that included multiple cervical fractures and a burst fracture in the C6 vertebra. His condition led to a critical spinal cord injury, and emergency surgery was required to stabilize his spine at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers. Currently, he is being treated in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit and is awaiting a second cervical fusion surgery scheduled for June 30. While Frank’s situation is delicate, he has shown some signs of improvement, such as being able to eat pureed food and needing less respiratory assistance, according to Ciber Cuba.

As the main breadwinner for his family—his wife and two children aged 9 and 3—Frank’s injury has thrown them into a financial crisis. In light of this, Frank’s family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign with a target of $20,000 to help cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and everyday living costs during this troubling time. They have already raised over $12,000, showcasing the power of community support. Family members, particularly his older brother Jorge Maya, have taken the lead in organizing this effort, encouraging anyone who can assist to contribute to Frank’s recovery, as noted on his GoFundMe page here.

The Need for Support

The family is grateful for the outpouring of support they have received so far and is urging the community to share their story to reach a wider audience. This situation highlights a significant issue: many Cubans in the U.S. resort to crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe during times of personal tragedy and health crises, particularly when they lack health insurance. Frank’s case is one among many—other campaigns have successfully helped individuals with serious illnesses or critical conditions, such as reuniting orphaned children with family or assisting a child with a tumor.

Spinal cord injuries, like Frank’s, pose a unique challenge. According to a study published on the global burden of diseases, these injuries result from various causes and significantly impact quality of life. In 2019 alone, there were approximately 0.9 million new cases of spinal cord injuries globally, with a high prevalence among males and older adults. The study highlights that neck-level injuries, such as those Frank has experienced, can result in a greater burden of disability and a longer recovery period reported here. It brings to light the essential need for continuous support for those affected by such injuries.

As Frank navigates the difficult road to recovery, his family remains steadfast at his side. Their resolve is a testament to the resilience that countless families exhibit when faced with unexpected challenges. The community’s support can not only alleviate some of the financial burdens but also bring hope and strength during these trying times. Contributions to Frank’s GoFundMe page are not just financial donations; they reflect a shared commitment to stand by a neighbor in need.