Photos, memories all that remain for Colombia's bereaved after quake

CALI, Colombia — In the days following the devastating earthquake that struck the city on Monday, families and volunteers in Torres del Limonar have been sifting through the rubble, searching for any remaining belongings of the victims. Marlene Nino, a 70-year-old retired lawyer whose sister Doris was among the 300 people killed, expressed her gratitude to the volunteers for recovering her sister's cherished photos.

Nino gazed at a photograph of herself, her sister, and other relatives, recounting the mix of emotions she felt—joy, sadness, and nostalgia. "These items hold immense sentimental value," she shared, visibly moved.

The building's management is responsible for recovering the lost items, with expectations dimming that any survivors will be found. Doris Nino, who was 72 and lived alone, was preparing to attend a dentist appointment when the quake struck, causing her residence to crumble. Several of her nephews volunteered to assist in the search, digging through the debris with their hands until they discovered her body near remnants of the kitchen.

Marlene Nino lamented that her sister had passed away before they could recover her, but hoped she had not endured further pain. Of the nearly 300 fatalities, over 100 remain missing, and rescue efforts have been suspended in several buildings.

The relentless fatigue and emotional turmoil have taken a significant toll on the volunteers and the families affected. In response, Colombia has established a national network to provide counseling services, both online and in person, to aid those struggling with grief. Mental health professional Manuela Barrios, a volunteer psychologist in the affected area, noted that the recovered belongings aid survivors in preserving memories. "When they find something, their expression changes," she observed, her eyes welling with tears.

For Marlene Nino, the moment her sister's body was found amidst the rubble brought a wave of relief, though it was tinged with sorrow. "We were able to recover her body; some families haven't been so fortunate," she tearfully remarked.