By now everyone knows the recent news regarding three suicide bombings at Istanbul’s Atatürk Airport. The attack leaves 41 dead and 239 injured.

I truly don’t know how to describe my emotions, after being at the same airport with my parents just two short months ago.

I was born and raised in Istanbul until age 14. I love the city. I called it home for so long. Countless friends here in the United States and around the world reached out to me to make sure I was okay, and to make sure my friends and family were okay. We are thankfully all safe and sound.

Thanks again to everyone who cared enough to be concerned for my safety and my family’s. There are some very positive takeaways from this horrible act of violence.

I learned not to give up on humanity. I learned the rest of the world is finally paying attention. I learned we can’t give in to evil. We need to stand united. We must continue to live our lives as before and not be afraid to travel. These attacks aren’t in the name of religion any longer. I don’t think they ever were.

I pray for the families and innocent victims and hope Istanbul shows resilience and stands stronger than ever before.

— Banu Yilmaz, advertising director