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Silver Medal and Consolation for Cianjur Earthquake Victims
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The earthquake that hit Cianjur, West Java trembled many hearts, including the Indonesian equestrian athlete, Euclia Purnama.
For Euclia, her feelings were mixed. Last week, as the earthquake hit Cianjur, the 16-year-old athlete won a silver medal at the 2022 International Princess Cup in Thailand with her two colleagues, Muhammad Akbar Kurniawan and Kayla Alesha. This is an Asian level equestrian championship participated by national junior athletes representing eight countries.
Shortly after receiving the silver medal, Euclia received news about the earthquake in Cianjur, West Java. She dedicated the silver medal she had won for the victims of the earthquake.
"We, Indonesian junior equestrian athletes, were competing in the Asian Championships in Thailand when the Cianjur earthquake hit," said Euclia.
"We won a silver medal for Indonesia, but our hearts are saddened to hear the news of the large number of fatalities due to this disaster," she added.
The grief of the victims of the Cianjur earthquake hit too close to home for Euclia, because one of the people who helped her in horse-riding became a victim of the disaster.
"That's why I am even more moved by this tragedy," said Euclia.
Euclia took action quickly. She looked for information on which areas needed help. Euclia distributed several items, namely food, baby food, milk, towels, blankets, mattresses, drinks, medicine, vitamins and among others.
Euclia worked with the Gasol Disaster Post to distribute the items. From the bottom of her heart, Euclia hoped that what has been channeled could be a solace.
"I am very concerned about the children. I hope the parents who have lost a child can be comforted. Hopefully, government and private assistance can reach their destination soon," said Euclia.
Social action is embedded in Euclia's life. Before the Cianjur earthquake, Euclia often mingled with scavengers in Bantar Gebang.
Euclia learned to help others from her parents and her sister. She always believed that true happiness is when we help each other.
"I have served several times at the Bantar Gebang garbage collection site, as well as helping street children and flood victims around Jabodetabek. I saw extraordinary enthusiasm for life, even though they live in a difficult situation. Children, especially, keep trying to be cheerful. A cheerful heart is good medicine," she said.
