Aruba was painted purple on March 26, in celebration of Epilepsy Foundation Aruba Purple Day, an international day dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy and showing support for those living with the condition.
The Epilepsy Foundation Aruba organized a special program at Paso pa Futuro School (PpF), where they not only celebrated Epilepsy Foundation Aruba Purple Day but also shared important information with students, teachers, and school staff.
During the week of March 23–27, 2026, the Epilepsy Foundation Aruba (SEA) took a significant step in educating schools and the community about epilepsy. On Monday, March 22, SEA was invited to the Nos Mainta program. On Tuesday, SEA visited PpF School to share information with the teachers about recognizing an epileptic seizure, the possible causes, and what to do (and what not to do) when a child has a seizure. On Wednesday, March 24, information was shared with the students in a simplified and age-appropriate way, explaining what epilepsy is and helping them not be afraid.
On Thursday, during the celebration of Epilepsy Foundation Aruba Purple Day, the program included the presence of Minister of Health Mervin Wyatt-Ras, who expressed his support and interest in raising awareness about epilepsy. The students impressed everyone with a beautiful play about epilepsy, showcasing their understanding and empathy.
Maryla Solognier, Vice President of the Epilepsy Foundation Aruba, spoke alongside Jasmin Wever-Wever, PR of the Foundation and the mother of a student with epilepsy at Paso pa Futuro School. In their speech, they shared real-life experiences and emphasized the importance of support, understanding, and good communication in schools and the community.
In an emotional moment, Jasmin Wever dedicated a poem to her son Carrick, followed by a video presentation where Carrick himself confirmed that he lives with epilepsy, leaving a significant impact on everyone present.
The day concluded with a sweet and joyful moment, featuring cupcakes, chocolate milk, oatmeal cookies, and apples, all generously sponsored by Bright Bakery, Compra NV., Ricardo and Lucia Wever, Casa Vieja, and Subway.
The Epilepsy Foundation Aruba expresses heartfelt thanks to all sponsors for their generosity and support. Special thanks also go to the family of Carrick—Karel and Danila Wever, Janice Wever-Kelly, and Gregory Wever—for the decorations with balloons, and, of course, to Paso pa Futuro School for their availability in making this celebration possible. The students did an excellent job and showed that education and awareness start at a young age.
The goal of Epilepsy Foundation Aruba is to continue sharing information, raising awareness, and breaking the stigma around epilepsy throughout the year. Through education, we can create a more understanding community where every child can feel safe, supported, and never alone.
For more information, the community can follow the Epilepsy Foundation Aruba on social media or contact Margarita at 593-5806, Maryla at 594-5362, or via email at arubapurple@gmail.com. Together, we can create more understanding… Together, we can break the stigma… You are not alone!
