Each candle represented the hope of thousands of affected people and the demand for timely diagnostics, treatments, and orphan drugs. Participants asked for public policies to include patients, promote scientific research, and respect human rights, equity, and non-discrimination. Spokespersons for ALASER pointed out that Panama still faces serious obstacles: delays in diagnostics, limited treatments, and unclear care pathways. They reiterated the need for a national policy to support families and ensure concrete responses to these rare diseases. The organization made it clear that it is ready to work with the State and international organizations. Hundreds of candles were lit in front of the Children's Hospital. Patients, families, and health professionals gathered for the 'IT'S TIME' vigil, organized by the Alliance of Associations of Rare, Orphan, and Little-Known Diseases of Panama (ALASER), to raise awareness of the struggle of those living with rare diseases in Panama. The event closed the national campaign dedicated to these pathologies and carried a clear message: there is no more time to lose. The act had strong symbolism. They emphasized that commitments must not remain in words, but must be transformed into real actions that guarantee comprehensive care and justice for patients and their families.
