Following the devastating earthquake in Turkey/Syria in February 2023, District 7620 Rotarians united as a working group, with invaluable support from the D7620 Disaster Relief Committee. Coming together weekly, the working group exchanged information provided by the disaster area Rotarians, the newly established US-Turkey Intercountry Committee (ICC) and set up a dedicated booth at the D7620 District Conference in April 2023. Their primary goal was to devise a meaningful strategy to provide essential support for disaster relief efforts in the affected area and raise the necessary funds.
We are delighted to announce that, thanks to the extraordinary generosity and unwavering support of D7620 Rotary Clubs, we have successfully raised the required funds to acquire a much-needed ventilator for the Cukurova University-Balcali Hospital in Adana, Turkey. The ventilator has been a crucial requirement for the hospital, especially after the damage during the February earthquake. To address this, certain sections of the building are currently being reinforced to withstand future seismic events.
On July 27, 2023, the Cukurova University-Balcali Hospital received the ventilator, and we were deeply moved to receive attached photos and letters from D2430 PDG Canan Ersoz, expressing their heartfelt gratitude. The impact of this donation cannot be overstated, as it will empower the ICU team to deliver improved medical outcomes for Turkish and Syrian refugee patients and families in this earthquake-stricken region.
The ventilator was made possible through the collective efforts and contributions from the following D7620 Rotary Clubs and Disaster Aid USA:
- RC Metro Bethesda, D7620 (Lead Club): $6,000
- RC Washington DC, D7620: $6,000
- Disaster Aid USA: $5,000
- RC Rockville, D7620: $1,500
- RC Chevy Chase, D7620: $1,500
- RC Baltimore, D7620: $1,000
- RC Farragut (Tennessee D6780): $1,500
Total: $22,500
This impressive display of unity and compassion showcases the true essence of Rotary’s motto: “Service Above Self.” We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the clubs and individuals who generously contributed to this noble cause, making a significant difference in the lives of those in need.
With this achievement, District 7620 reaffirms its commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis and creating hope in the world for those facing adversity. Together, we have proven that Rotary’s spirit of solidarity knows no boundaries and can transcend continents to touch lives positively.