Ayda, who lost her mother Fidan Keskin Gezgin in the wreckage of the Rıza Bey Apartment building that collapsed in the earthquake on October 30, 2020 in Izmir, was rescued 91 hours later with the work of search and rescue teams. She continues her life with her father Uğur Gezgin and her 13-year-old brother Atakan Gezgin.
After attending a kindergarten for 3 years, Ayda started elementary school. She began her education at a private school in Bornova, where her father Uğur Gezgin and her brother Atakan Gezgin did not leave her alone on her first day.
Father Uğur Gezgin expressed his excitement for Ayda starting elementary school. He mentioned that Ayda continues to receive psychologist support. “Everything is going well. We miss her mother. We remember her mother with photos and videos. We told my daughter about her mother’s passing at the beginning. Occasionally, we visit my wife’s grave together. My daughter does not forget her mother,” he said.
Gezgin explained that last week there was a 3-day orientation process at school, where Ayda met her new teachers and friends. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported his family after the Izmir earthquake.
The Gezgin family is still coping with the loss of Ayda’s mother, but they are trying their best to move forward with Ayda’s well-being in mind. They are ensuring she receives the necessary support and are helping her to remember her mother in a healthy way. Despite the tragic event that shook their family, they are grateful for the support they have received and are looking towards the future with hope.
Ayda’s journey as she starts a new chapter in her life highlights the resilience and strength of a young girl who has faced a devastating loss. With the love and support of her family, she is navigating through grief and adjusting to changes, such as starting school. The Gezgin family’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and love in overcoming challenging circumstances and rebuilding life after a tragedy.
