ISKENDERUN: "Thank goodness we survived and can continue life as usual here. The orphanage is our only home," said 15-year old Hassan Al Hassan, referring to Kataraj Orphanage that was miraculously spared from the destruction of the deadly Turkiye-Syria earthquake which occurred last week.
The orphanage, home to 30 children and teenagers, remained intact after the quake.
And what is more amazing is that almost all the buildings around and next to the welfare home were destroyed.
"Alhamdulillah, only the roof was damaged, and I am grateful that everyone was is safe because a neighbour behind us died and was only found dead two days after the earthquake," he said.
Hassan said after the earthquake, various parties came forward to provide aid to the orphanage.
"Life is as usual now, despite frequent interruptions to water and electricity.
"We are also grateful because the food supply here is still sufficient, we can eat and drink as usual," said Hassan in fluent English.
Recalling the terrifying moment, Hassan said when the earthquake struck, he and other residents were woken by a strong tremor.
"The strong movement made it difficult for us to stand upright but we managed to rush out of the house. Then only, we saw the houses and the nearby buildings collapsing one by one.
"We could only scream and pray. Then we were sure the house was safe, we went back inside," said Hassan.
The incident, he said, has left him and his fellow mates with lingering trauma and fear.
"Small children usually cry and as brothers, we look after them and protect them.
Home caretaker, Abu Khalid Ahmad, 38, said at the time of the incident he was on the ground floor and was preparing to perform the Subuh prayer.
"Most of the residents are Syrian orphans who fled to Turkey when war broke out in their country. They have been living here for three years.
"Most of their fathers were killed in the war, but some of them still live at the home with their mothers.
"I am grateful that the earthquake did not destroy this house and they still have a place to take shelter. I can't imagine what their lives will be like if this house was destroyed," he said.
