At just 19, Malien Diaz Almaguer survived a plane crash that killed 112 others — including her husband.
On May 18, 2018, Cubana de Aviación flight 0972 crashed only 40 seconds after takeoff from Havana.

Investigations revealed serious weight and balance errors, along with incorrect stabilizer settings, causing the plane’s fatal descent.
Malien, now 26, was left paralyzed from a spinal injury and lost her left leg below the knee.
“For me, the accident was the greatest test of my life,” she told UNILAD.

She remembers almost nothing from the crash itself, but believes her survival was divine intervention.
“God has had and still has plans for my life,” she said.
Despite daily medical challenges and survivor’s guilt, she has chosen gratitude over despair.

“I enjoy every detail, no matter how small, and give thanks to God for everything,” she shared.
Her story is a powerful reminder that life can change in seconds — and that hope can outlive tragedy.