I recently saw a small piece Nightline did following up on the tragedies in Japan one year later. It just reminded me why we are doing this project and that the work is far from over. For many of us, it is easy to forget about a catastrophe, even one a big as in Japan, once it is no longer being reported by the media. That is unfortunate because, for those effect, the struggle does not end with the news story.
After seeing the Nightline story I started searching out other video reflecting on the conditions in Japan a year later. Much of it I already knew but seeing it and hearing from the survivors really brought it home to me. There are still so many people without home, the nuclear fall out from the Fukushima meltdown is much worse than the government wants to admit, and the level of psychological damage done to those who survived is disturbing. A great many no longer trust their government and they have valid reason. It is mostly because of this last part that I am very happy that we chose the International Medical Corps as the charity to which we are donating the money from Fable for Japan. Among other things they are working to address the psychological needs of those who survived, helping them cope with the loss of their loved ones, their parents, their children, their home, and their jobs. It is a very good thing to support.
In fact the International Medical Corps recently published their 1 year report detailing their work in Japan. I urge you to check it out:
I have also posted below some of the one year videos I found. Some are longer than others but I highly recommend watching them, they are powerful, moving, and enlightening.
Of course, Fables for Japan is still trying to raise as much money as we can to help with the rebuilding. Books 1 and 2 are available in the Buy Fables for Japan section - every penny you spend on these beautiful books goes to the International Medical Corps. And we are currently working on the 3rd and final volume of Fables for Japan. Many artist and writers have volunteered for this one - it will be the larges of all 3 books and the work being done looks to be the most impressive yet. We hope you'll support us by buying Book 3 as well. And, please, tell your friends, it's amazing how quickly $2.95 a book can add up and do some real good in the world.
But ultimately, if the books aren't for you, then please find a good charity of your own and send in some money.
Just don't forget these people in need.
Nightline report:
Fukushima, One Year later:
A fascinating video showing the state of norther Japan a year later and interviewing some of the survivors. I highly recommend watching this two parter.
Japan - One Year After 3.11 - Part 1
Japan - One Year After 3.11 - Part 2
Thank you
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