Emilio van der Linden has returned to Aruba after nearly three months of treatment, training and rehabilitation in Houston, Texas, where he received a new prosthetic leg and worked toward walking independently again.
Daily training rebuilt balance and confidence
Van der Linden said he spent at least three hours a day in therapy and practice. He fell several times during the early stage of training but continued with professional guidance until his balance and confidence improved.
He described the adjustment as both physical and mental, requiring patience while he learned to walk safely and naturally with the prosthesis. On returning to Aruba, he said he felt much better and was preparing to resume the job he held before treatment.
Aruba Shriners Club supported the treatment
The case was the first concrete patient project coordinated by Aruba Shriners Club with Shriners International. The local group began organizing the effort after its reactivation and helped connect Van der Linden with care in Houston.
His father, Emiliano van der Linden, described the return as an emotional milestone and praised his son’s persistence during rehabilitation. Prime Minister Mike Eman and Tourism, Transport and Labour Minister Wendrick Cicilia were among those who received him at Queen Beatrix International Airport.
Details of Emilio van der Linden’s rehabilitation and return were reported by 24ora, which also covered the airport reception and the Shriners Club’s role.
