Patchogue residents assisting Turkey, Syria earthquake victims in need

Gee Antapli-Zeb, who was born and raised in Turkey, and her colleague Jaiya Rampersard have mobilized to gather dozens of donations for the earthquake victims.

Feb 8, 2023, 11:25 PM

Updated 580 days ago

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Two Patchogue residents are doing their part to help the people of Turkey and Syria after the area was hit by a deadly earthquake on Tuesday.
Gee Antapli-Zeb, who was born and raised in Turkey, and her colleague Jaiya Rampersard have mobilized to gather dozens of donations for the earthquake victims.
“I can't watch them suffer after this earthquake,” said Antapli-Zeb.
Antapli-Zeb told News 12 she had several family members die and others missing since the earthquake hit. She also noted communication with her family in her hometown of Antakya is limited and frustrating.
“They have nothing left,” she added. “The buildings are gone. They are literally sitting in the streets right now. 
“I know what it's like to have roots somewhere else and not be able to help them,” said Rampersard.
According to Antapli-Zeb, collecting supplies for the victims of the earthquake hasn’t been a problem, but trying to get the supplies where they need to be is. She acknowledged needing to find a way to get the supplies brought directly to her village but is concerned because they are on the outskirts of a major city which might delay the delivery of donations.
Antapli-Zeb is collecting donations at her family medical practice in Patchogue.