On the Day of Latin American Medicine, in honor of the eminent scientist from Camagüey Carlos J. Finlay, there are many examples of altruism that we can bring up. I invite you to approach a young man who went to Italy to fight against COVID-19, becoming a pride for his family and his homeland.

Arrival in the homeland

I already knew the story of the young Dr. Rubén Martínez from his father Ramón, who with great pride told us about his son’s departure to Lombardy, the most infected region with COVID-19 in Italy.

When Cubavisión televised the return of the first brigade of the Henry Rive contingent live, that story came to mind and since I still had his number, I called Ramón to ask him who Rubén was, excited and with a broken voice he told me: the one with the guitar who is in the front row, I am very happy and proud.

What came after the departure

First came the fear, the worry, but at the same time there were mixed feelings; because it is indisputable that Rubén Martínez, like all Cuban doctors, are well prepared and can face anything.

Soon the sadness faded, when they began to talk every day with the young doctor from Camaguey and he showed his family all the security measures and rigor with which they worked, in addition to the long and exhausting days they faced.

He also told them about the applause with which that grateful people received them and the expressions of gratitude that showered them with coats and blankets, to survive the harsh winter of that distant European country.

The heroes in white coats make us proud. Every night, even Cuba applauds doctors of any latitude and the anonymous heroes who assist them, in the confrontation with the pandemic and other evils. Today from the land of El Mayor, the young doctor Rubén Martínez honors his demonym, and we are very pleased to know that one of our people was there to save so many lives.

Thanks to his father for telling us this story, which is that of many Cubans. Rubén left with his backpack from the side of the heart and his guitar to bring health and joy to those in need … for him and for all doctors, we send a well-deserved ovation.

Translated by: Aileen Álvarez García