Aruba – The local organization Micky’s Foundation, which has provided specialized therapy for children with physical and cognitive disabilities for over a decade, announced that it will cease pediatric physiotherapy services starting January 1, 2026. This decision affects approximately 140 children who have been receiving therapy through the foundation.
The foundation emphasized that this decision, though difficult, was necessary due to structural challenges and the expectation that the Aruban Government, Dr. Horacio Oduber Hospital, and AZV assume responsibility for safeguarding the therapeutic needs of these vulnerable children. Over the past 11 years, Micky’s Foundation has delivered about 14,000 hours of free therapy with the help of 40 pediatric physiotherapists and volunteers, fully funded by sponsors.
Parents and caregivers have expressed deep concern, with some even considering relocating to the Netherlands. The foundation has formally appealed to Minister of Public Health Mervin Wyatt-Ras, Prime Minister Mike Eman, AZV Director Edwin Jacobs, and Dr. Horacio Oduber Hospital President Jaco Vroegop for immediate action and support to ensure continuity of care.
Micky’s Foundation will continue providing occupational therapy and speech therapy throughout 2026, but pediatric physiotherapy, its most essential service, will no longer be offered. The foundation remains committed to advocating for the rights and needs of these children and their families.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/micky-s-foundation-a-divulga-cu-ya-nan-no-por-sigui-haci-e-trabao
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