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Gloria Castillo Rojas, a beloved neighbor from Santiago de Cuba, celebrated her 100th birthday this weekend surrounded by the love of her large family, in a day marked by emotion, respect, and admiration for a woman who has defied time.
The official page of the Tele Turquino channel shared an image of the celebration, highlighting the lady's exemplary life and congratulating her with the message: “Happy 100 trips around the sun!”.
In a country where life expectancy has traditionally been a source of state pride, reaching a century of life amid material shortages, a health crisis, and an aging population is an even greater achievement.
Maintaining health in Cuba—where basic medicines, hygiene products, and essential foods are in short supply—is increasingly difficult, especially for the elderly, who face multiple obstacles in accessing quality medical care.
In that context, reaching 100 years is not only a reason for joy but also a testament to resilience.
Gloria Castillo's birthday became a symbol of family unity and strength. Children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other loved ones gathered to pay tribute and share memories with someone who has witnessed a century of Cuban history and has been a part of the human fabric that supports the country amid so many challenges.
Her story is also the story of many anonymous Cuban women who, with effort, love, and dignity, have supported entire generations, enduring the crises of the present and the unfulfilled promises of the past.
In September 2024, the story of Dalia Rivero became public, a woman from Santiago who celebrated her 101st birthday in a nursing home in Santiago de Cuba. The grandmother is described as a calm and lucid person, capable of narrating anecdotes from her youth with clarity, despite the physical limitations that come with age and the difficult conditions of the Cuban geriatric care system.
A few days later, in October, the unique story of Carlos Rodríguez, a centenarian who attributed his longevity to the consumption of corn meal, hutias, and fish heads, was spread.
His testimony, marked by the food austerity that has accompanied generations of Cubans, highlighted how the elderly have managed to adapt and survive in an environment characterized by scarcity and nutritional deficiencies.
More recently, in March 2025, an elderly woman from Sancti Spíritus celebrated her 105th birthday surrounded by an extensive family that includes 16 children.
The case once again highlighted the ability of certain Cuban families to stay united across generations, and the fundamental role that many women have played in sustaining the household, despite economic adversities and the precariousness of basic services such as healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions about Longevity and Challenges in Cuba
What does reaching 100 years mean in Cuba?
Reaching the age of 100 in Cuba is a significant achievement, especially in a context of material scarcity and health crises. It is a symbol of resilience and family unity, as the elderly face multiple obstacles in accessing adequate medical care and maintaining their health.
How did Gloria Castillo's family celebrate their centenary?
Gloria Castillo celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by her large family in Santiago de Cuba. The celebration was a tribute filled with love and admiration, reflecting the family unity and the strength that have sustained them throughout her life.
What challenges do elderly Cubans face today?
Cuban elders face significant challenges due to shortages of medication, food, and inadequate healthcare. The economic conditions and the aging population exacerbate these difficulties, making longevity even more commendable.
What role does family play in the lives of Cuban centenarians?
The family is fundamental in the lives of Cuban centenarians, providing emotional and physical support. Family celebrations symbolize the unity and strength that have enabled these elderly individuals to overcome the adversities of the Cuban environment.
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