The Child Amputees of Turkiye Earthquake

Thanks to your support, our local partners are standing side by side with children and young people who lost limbs in the devastating February 2023 earthquake. Together, we’re ensuring they don’t just recover physically, but find their way back into school, friendships, and everyday life.  This work is about more than prosthetics and therapy. It is  about giving children the chance to grow, to laugh, and dream again.

The February 2023 Türkiye Earthquake

The February 6, 2023 earthquake; one of the deadliest in Turkiye’s modern history; claimed 53,537 lives, injured 107,000 people, and directly affected 9.1 million. Among its  most severe consequences: 1,956 amputations performed as a direct result of earthquake injuries, including 317 children under the age of 18.

In the immediate aftermath, emergency amputation surgeries were followed by prosthetic fittings at state hospitals. The Turkish Ministry of Health has since provided most amputees with at least one prosthetic device. However, prostheses wear down over time and must be repaired or replaced, especially for growing children, whose bodies change rapidly. Ongoing physiotherapy and rehabilitation remain essential  to help child amputees regain mobility, independence, and the ability to participate in daily life. 

Abdullah’s Story

Abdullah was 8 years old when the earthquake took his left leg. He was fitted with a Chopart prosthesis and began rehabilitation at our local partner's center in July 2024. In the early weeks, movement was extremely difficult for him. He experienced pain when standing for long periods, tired quickly when attempting to run, and often lagged behind his friends in their games. His steps were cautious, and his confidence was fragile. 

With prosthetic support tailored to his growing body and consistent physiotherapy, Abdullah’s progress was remarkable. His steps grew more balanced, his self-confidence increased, and he learned to move more freely. Today, Abdullah runs with his friends, joins in their games, and enjoys a greater sense of independence. His journey, marked by small but determined steps, continues to expand his world each day. 

Stories like Abdullah’s remind us of the resilience and strength of children who have endured unimaginable hardship. Each child faces the same long road of surgeries, fittings, therapy, and setbacks, and each one needs sustained support to walk it. Your contributions make these transformations possible, helping the youngest survivors of the February 2023 earthquake rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Links:

• https://bridgetoturkiye.org/cate/