Former Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has been awarded one of Cuba’s highest national distinctions, the Medal of Friendship, even as her husband, Errald Miller, has revealed that the trailblazing leader is quietly living with dementia.

The award, conferred by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez through Presidential Decree No. 1039 on July 10, was presented on Wednesday at the Cuban Embassy in Kingston. In accepting the honour on her behalf, Miller reflected on his wife’s enduring commitment to Cuba and confirmed her ongoing health challenges.

Cuban Ambassador Fermín Quiñones, in a moving citation, described Simpson Miller as a steadfast friend of Cuba who stood with the country during some of its most difficult moments. He praised her decades of advocacy, particularly her vocal opposition to the United States embargo on Cuba and her repeated calls at the United Nations for the lifting of economic sanctions. He called her “an impeccable friend of Cuba” whose efforts earned the admiration of the Cuban people.

“She has been consistent in her solidarity, unwavering in her calls for peace and justice,” the ambassador said, adding that her contribution to the defence of Cuban sovereignty was matched by a personal warmth and enduring friendship with the Cuban people. He also noted the strong ties forged between the two nations during her time in office, referencing key projects such as the José Martí Technical High School and the G.C. Foster College, both constructed with Cuban support.

Errald Miller, who spoke at the ceremony, recounted their visit to Cuba and the generosity of its people. “I have never seen a country and a people that have so little and give so much,” he said, echoing his wife’s admiration for the island’s resilience and global outreach.

In a poignant moment, Miller disclosed publicly for the first time that Simpson Miller, 79, has been diagnosed with dementia. He described her current condition as early-stage, saying she continues to speak, walk, and engage with close family and friends, even if at times her recognition is delayed. She no longer answers the phone regularly, and the family has stopped allowing photographs.

“That’s my life now,” he said. “I live only for her.”

As Simpson Miller’s husband and primary caregiver, Miller said the family is doing everything possible to preserve her comfort and dignity. “When we see her smile or respond to a hug, we know she is still with us in her own way.”

The ceremony took place just days before World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, an international effort to raise awareness of dementia and related conditions.

Dr. Angela Brown Burke, Chairman of the People’s National Party, expressed gratitude on behalf of the party, calling the award a timely and meaningful reminder of Simpson Miller’s legacy and the lasting ties she helped foster with Cuba.

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