Eminent orthopedic Doctor Rodrigo Álvarez Cambra passes away at 88

Havana, March 2 (RHC)-- The Ministry of Public Health reports that eminent Cuban orthopedic doctor Rodrigo Álvarez Cambra passed away on Thursday afternoon in Havana, at the age of 88.

Alvarez Cambra devoted his life to the study and development of orthopedics and traumatology, research and training of new generations in those specialties in Cuba and the world.

His great work is also closely linked to Cuban sports. He attended and saved the careers of hundreds of injured athletes and several Olympic champions.

He was recognized with the distinction of Hero of Labor of the Republic of Cuba and several decorations, medals and tributes.

He also received the title of Second Degree Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Researcher of Merit, Honorary Doctor of several Latin American universities and Honorary Professor and Professor Emeritus of prestigious universities in the world.

He chaired the Cuban Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology for several decades.  He was an honorary and full member of several international scientific societies.

Dr. Alvarez Cambra fulfilled important international missions and others of high sensitivity in health.

Rodrigo Alvarez Cambra was born on December 22, 1934 in Candelaria, Pinar del Rio. During the tyranny of Fulgencio Batista he participated in student demonstrations and protests.

When the University was closed in 1956, he got a job at the Calixto García Hospital.  After the Triumph of the Revolution he resumed his studies and graduated in 1964.

He was sent to France by the Commander in Chief, Fidel Castro Ruz, to begin postgraduate studies. After his return, he took over the direction of the Frank País Orthopedic Hospital and turned it into the Frank País International Orthopedic Scientific Complex.

His body will be exhibited at the Funeral Home on Calzada and K, this Thursday, starting at 8:00 p.m.   In the coming days, the professor will be honored at the Frank País Orthopedic Hospital, to which he dedicated his entire life.