Japan’s history of natural disasters has shaped its resilience and preparedness. My recent visit to Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital and Okawa Elementary School provided a look into the impacts of the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 and the country’s efforts to rebuild and learn from the tragedy.
Learning at Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital
Our journey began with a bus ride to Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital, a key facility during the disaster. Upon arrival, we entered a gym-like room filled with tables where we settled in to watch videos and attend lectures detailing the hospital’s response during the earthquake and subsequent tsunami. The Great East Japan Earthquake, a magnitude 9.0 quake, struck on March 11, 2011, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The hospital played a critical role in treating the injured patients amidst challenging conditions.
The lectures were enlightening, explaining how the hospital quickly adapted to the crisis. After the lectures they showcased makeshift setups used during such emergencies, including cardboard beds, portable toilets, and tents. I was particularly impressed by the cardboard beds, which were very sturdy and comfortable.
Example of the cardboard beds
A Somber Visit to Okawa Elementary School
After lunch at Aeon Mall, we continued our journey to Okawa Elementary School, a site deeply affected by the tsunami. Upon arrival, we met our tour guide, a father who lost his daughter, Mai, in the disaster. His firsthand account added depth to the tour as we walked through the remains of the school.
The devastation was apparent, with the school almost entirely destroyed. Our guide recounted the tragic events of that day, highlighting that many students and teachers lost their lives. He led us up a hill behind the school, a route that, if taken that fateful day, could have saved lives. Reaching a platform where classes were sometimes held, we could see the entire school grounds, bringing the scale of the tragedy into sharp focus.
One moment from the tour that resonated deeply with me was when our guide shared, “I still see daughter Mai in my dreams, but she’s still 12.” His words underscored the enduring pain and loss experienced by the families affected by the disaster. It was a powerful reminder of the human cost of such events and the importance of preparedness and swift action.
View from hill of Okawa Elementary School
Reflections on Resilience and Preparedness
This visit underscored the resilience of the Japanese people and their commitment to learning from past tragedies. The Great East Japan Earthquake prompted significant advancements in disaster preparedness, evident in the measures showcased at Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital. The hospital’s ability to adapt and provide care in extreme conditions is a testament to the effectiveness of these preparations.
Okawa Elementary School stands as a somber reminder of the importance of swift decision-making during disasters. The tragic loss of life could have been mitigated with quicker action and better preparedness. The stories and experiences shared by our guide highlighted the critical need for continuous improvement in disaster response strategies.
In conclusion, my visit to Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital and Okawa Elementary School was a deeply moving and educational experience. It emphasized the importance of resilience, preparedness, and learning from past events to better protect communities in the future. Japan’s ongoing efforts to enhance disaster response and recovery serve as a powerful example for the rest of the world.