
The Harrowing Story of Gülcan Yılmaz: February 6th’s Painful Tragedy

The pain of February 6 continues to linger in the hearts of those who were affected by the devastating earthquake that struck Hatay. The earthquake took the lives of thousands, leaving behind a trail of grief and sorrow. Among those who survived the ordeal is Gülcan Yılmaz, who spent 5 days trapped under the rubble, miraculously emerging alive. However, his wife, his “biggest love”, was not as fortunate and did not survive.
In an emotional interview with Fulya Ozturk, the CNN Turkish Special News Chief, Yılmaz shared his heartbreaking story of loss and survival. He recounted the moments he spent with his wife, the memories that now haunt him. Yılmaz expressed his deep longing for his wife, lamenting that he wishes she had stayed with him, even if only for a few more days.
The salvation of Yılmaz from the wreckage was credited to Zonguldak miners who heard his cries for help. Their heroic efforts and determination to rescue him brought a glimmer of hope in the midst of despair. Yılmaz recalled the sounds of prayers and screams during those harrowing days, and the moment when he knew he was saved.
Despite the tragedy that has befallen him, Yılmaz remains hopeful for the future of Hatay, the city he calls home. He expresses his gratitude towards the state and the nation for their support, and his belief in the resilience of the people of Hatay. Yılmaz is confident that better days lie ahead, and he looks forward to seeing his beloved city rise from the ashes.
As the memory of February 6 continues to weigh heavily on the hearts of all those affected, Yılmaz’s story serves as a reminder of the strength and perseverance of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a tale of love, loss, and ultimately, hope for a brighter tomorrow.





