On behalf of the members of the International Family Nursing Association (IFNA), we want to express our deep sorrow at the extensive loss of life and destruction caused by the recent devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. The tragedy has shocked and distressed people around the world. We send our heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost family members, to those who are injured and whose families, homes and communities have been devastated by the earthquakes, and to our family nursing colleagues whose work to support families’ health and wellbeing will be made unbelievably difficult in such tragic circumstances. We have one IFNA member in Turkey and I have written to them to express our full support at this time of unprecedented tragedy.
Our attitudes about the effects on families of the unfolding crisis in Turkey and Syria and the resulting devastation for so many families are inextricably linked to our beliefs as the International Family Nursing Association about the central importance of family in countries and societies, our ethical views regarding the rights of families, family nurses, healthcare workers and volunteers to safety and health, and our role in the promotion of family health and well-being.
Protecting families, family nurses, healthcare workers and volunteers
As national and international relief efforts are underway in Turkey and Syria to rescue the thousands of people trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings and otherwise affected by the seriously damaged infrastructure of the two countries, we are aware that families, nurses, healthcare workers and volunteers caring for them are seriously endangered. All parties to the armed conflict in the region should allow for the rapid and unfettered passage of humanitarian assistance and vital healthcare to civilians in need, including families who are separated, and for whom this earthquake comes on top of war and displacement.
How can we help?
Global and national charities are appealing for donations to fund aid for people caught up in the crisis. Below are some reputable organisations who are seeking assistance for their incredible humanitarian efforts; if colleagues wish to donate, we suggest they seek out reputable organizations such as these or those within their home countries, to offer support:
Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) People have been left without shelter in freezing winter conditions, with humanitarian needs expected to grow in the coming days. Access to clean water will likely be a challenge, bringing the risk of cholera and other diseases. DEC charities and their local partners are among the first responders, working with locally-led relief efforts in Turkey (now known as Türkiye) and Syria. Immediate priorities are search and rescue, medical treatment for the injured, shelter for those who have lost their homes, heaters for spaces and winter kits with blankets, and warm clothes, and ensuring people have food and clean water.
Medicens san Frontier facilitates travel for people affected by the tragedy to healthcare facilities and access to prescribed medications.
To all families, family nurses, healthcare workers and volunteers suffering in this crisis, you are in our thoughts and prayers as you cope with the devastation arising from this extraordinary natural tragedy in Turkey and Syria.
10th February 2023
Veronica M. Swallow, IFNA President
June A. Horowitz, IFNA President-Elect
