The family of the recently deceased Fijn Lopez has been able to donate four care beds to
SABA healthcare institutions following fundraising efforts held at the end of last year.
The fundraising initiatives were originally set up to purchase a special care bed for Fijn, who
suffered from Parkinson’s disease. The bed could be lowered extra low to prevent falls.
Ultimately, the funds raised made it possible to purchase not just one, but four beds—much-
needed equipment, especially for SABA’s most vulnerable patients.
Sadly, it was too late for Fijn. A month later, he passed away on December 11, 2025, at the
age of 76 at Huize Maris Stella. The family therefore chose this SABA facility as the place to
present the beds. “Unfortunately, my father was not able to use his care bed. However, it
perfectly reflects who he was and what he did throughout his life: helping others. Now four
other patients with a high risk of falling will benefit from this. A beautiful legacy,” said his
daughter, Nathalia Lopez, during the handover of the beds to SABA director Sulima
Geerman.
SABA is grateful for the donation and hopes others will follow this example. The need for
new beds is much greater, and donations are warmly welcomed. “During a period when we
did not have sufficient resources, this collaboration made a significant difference. Thanks to
the efforts of the family and the community, the well-being of our residents has improved.
For this, we are deeply grateful,” the SABA management stated.
Final Races for Fijn
Francisco ‘Fijn’ Lopez was for many years a passionate athlete who participated in
marathons and triathlons around the world. In addition to his love of sports, he was also a
dedicated teacher in Sint Maarten, inspiring many young people with his discipline and
positive outlook on life.
At the age of 48, Fijn was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Despite his illness, he
continued to live by his life motto: “Better and Better Every Day.” In 2025, Fijn was admitted
to Huize Maris Stella. Due to the lack of suitable care beds that could be set extra low, his
care and safety became an additional challenge. This motivated the family to take action.
Through fundraising activities organized around and during running events in Aruba and Sint
Maarten at the end of last year, awareness was raised about Parkinson’s disease and
donations were collected for the care beds. During these events, family, friends, former
students, athletes, and supporters came together to show their love and support. In Aruba,
Fijn participated in a race in a sports wheelchair, pushed by his nephew Jeff Lopez. In Sint
Maarten, his former running friends ran in his honor during the Around the Island Relay Race
in 2025.
Fijn once had a dream: an Aruban relay team participating in the Around the Island St.
Maarten Day’s Relay Race. Eleven runners; strong together, proud together; showing their
love for the island by carrying the Aruban flag, his daughter Nathalia Lopez explained.
Anyone who would like to participate for the 11 th of November 2026 race and help continue
this dream can send a WhatsApp message to Tri-Bike (+297 7352734) for more information.
Finally, the Lopez family and SABA would like to thank everyone who contributed to this
initiative. Anyone wishing to make a donation to SABA can find more information at:
https://sabaruba.org/donations/
