This topic is about a traveler's eye-opening experience with the healthcare system in Cuba, which left them feeling grateful for the healthcare available in North America. Here's a summary of the experience and some advice and insights shared by others:

- The traveler prepared for a family vacation to Cuba by packing necessary ostomy supplies, medications, and securing travel medical insurance. They were aware of the potential for traveler’s diarrhea, having needed medical treatment in Cuba before.

- Upon arrival, the traveler brought along donated medical items like Crohn’s medications, diabetic meters, and eyeglasses for Cuban friends who struggle to access these items locally, despite the government’s claims of excellent free healthcare.

- A serious fall by the traveler’s father-in-law led to a visit to a Cuban public hospital, where they encountered shocking conditions: dirty wards, stagnant water, mold, lack of linens and basic supplies, outdated instruments, absent staff, and patient neglect.

- This stark contrast between the government’s propaganda and the reality prompted the traveler to investigate further. They discovered that Cuban doctors are often sent abroad under exploitative contracts, earning only a small portion of the money paid for their services while the government retains the rest.

- The experience left the traveler feeling deeply thankful for Canadian healthcare and resolved to stop complaining about minor inconveniences at home. They returned to Canada for Thanksgiving, feeling blessed and motivated to help Cuban patients.

- The traveler plans to return to Cuba in January to gather more information and continue supporting Cuban patients and ostomates, hinting that this may become the subject of a future book.

Advice and insights from others include:

1. Political and ethical reflection: It's important to recognize that powerful regimes can disguise harsh realities, and ordinary citizens should remain vigilant and challenge misinformation.

2. Writing and advocacy: Encouragement for the traveler to write a book, share their story with media outlets, and spread their findings to counter false narratives.

3. Perspective and gratitude: Experiences like this can deepen appreciation for the quality, access, and rights within North American healthcare systems.

4. Travel caution: Some people feel that such revelations reinforce their decision to avoid traveling to Cuba.