25.05.2025 15:30
The balloon release event organized for 4-year-old Ali Asaf, who overcame cancer in Sancaktepe, turned into a festival filled with hope and solidarity with the participation of thousands of people. Citizens from all over Istanbul released their colorful balloons into the sky. The balloons rising to the clouds carried hope to children fighting against cancer.
```html
The Sancaktepe district of Istanbul hosted a hopeful celebration attended by hundreds of citizens gathered to celebrate the victory of 4-year-old Ali Asaf, who has overcome cancer. The event took place thanks to a call made by Ali Asaf's father, Samet Demir, on social media, and with the support of the Sancaktepe Municipality.
"'MY SON WANTS TO FLY BALLOONS, WILL YOU COME?'"
Recently, father Samet Demir announced his son's victory on his social media account, saying, "We don't have many friends. My son has overcome cancer, he wants to fly balloons. Will you come?" This heartfelt message caught the attention of Sancaktepe Mayor Alper Yeğin. Under Mayor Yeğin's instruction, preparations began quickly, and Sancaktepe Square was transformed into a festive area for Ali Asaf.
THOUSANDS GATHERED FOR ALI ASAF
Father Demir's call quickly resonated widely. Citizens from all over Istanbul, even from miles away, flocked to Sancaktepe Square with balloons in hand. At the event, Ali Asaf and his family welcomed guests on the stage set up by the Sancaktepe Municipality.
FATHER COULDN'T HOLD BACK TEARS
When father Samet Demir appeared before the public, he couldn't hold back his tears, while little Ali Asaf's face was always smiling.
"WE ARE STRONG, NOT CANCER"
Sharing his emotions from the stage, father Samet Demir said, "I never expected such interest. Thank you to everyone who came. May God bless you all. I hope these balloons will be a source of hope not only for Ali Asaf but also for other patients in the hospital. May God grant them all healing," he said.
Ali Asaf's mother shared her feelings with the words, "Hope is always there. Never lose your hope. We are strong, not cancer. We thank each and every one who came," she expressed.
HOPE WAS LEFT IN THE SKY
The event was also attended by Nuri Aslan, the Deputy Mayor of Istanbul. During the celebration, which was accompanied by thousands of people, thousands of balloons were released into the sky in honor of Ali Asaf's victory. The balloons soaring into the sky carried hope for children fighting cancer.
```