When rescuers discovered a 2-month-old baby amidst the ruins of Turkey’s catastrophic earthquake in February 2023, the scene was one of profound emotion. The infant, who had been trapped for 128 hours—almost five days—was remarkably in good health.
Given the assumption that her parents were among the 50,000 victims of the earthquake and with no immediate family details, she was placed under the care of medical professionals and named Gizem, meaning “Mystery” in Turkish.
However, a significant piece of this story has found resolution, leading to a more hopeful conclusion. The baby’s mother, Yasemin Begdas, has been located, and the two have been reunited after 54 days apart.
According to Reuters, the baby's real name is Vetin. Her mother is currently receiving treatment in a hospital in Adana. Initially, Vetin was taken to a hospital in Adana, but after being confirmed in good health, she was transported by presidential plane to the Family Ministry in Ankara for further care.
Al-Jazeera reports that Family and Social Services Minister Derya Yanik played a key role in the reunion after a DNA test confirmed their relationship. “Reuniting a mother with her child is one of the most priceless tasks,” Yanik said. “Being part of that joy was very meaningful for us.”
In a translated tweet, the Ministry expressed, “Vetin is now our baby, too. Our support will always be with you.”
Tragically, Vetin’s father and two brothers perished in the earthquake, leaving only the mother and baby as the surviving members of their immediate family.
Despite the immense loss and hardship they have endured, their reunion offers a glimmer of hope and comfort as they begin to heal and rebuild their lives together.