Japan: A Story of Survival
Karina Petersen reports from Japan.
The scene was like something straight out of a movie. Otomo heard the emergency siren on March 11, warning those in the area to evacuate to higher ground. Quickly she jumped in the car with her daughter and son-in-law, and the couple's 21-day-old infant.
When they arrived at the dedicated safe place, an elementary school, the tsunami was right behind them. With her grandbaby in arms, Otomo tried to reach the building. But she wasn't fast enough. She was caught by the massive wave.
The tsunami swept away everything around her-everything except her.
With the water almost shoulder-level, she became pinned against a gutter. In order to keep the baby alive, she straightened her arms and held her grandchild above her head. The rushing waters brought shattered glass and other debris that continued to pummel her body. Finally, her son-in-law came and helped Otomo and the child to safety.
"My daughter and her husband had wanted a baby for a long time," Otomo said. "Finally, this baby was born, and all I was thinking while the water was rushing over me was, ‘I'm going to save this baby.'"
She has three siblings who each have families of their own. They all lost their homes. Tugging at her clothes Otomo said, "This is all I have."
Samaritan's Purse is giving Otomo and her relatives hope. The family received food and blankets plus a hygiene kit. In addition, we are providing sleeping mats for Otomo and her loved ones.
But the biggest surprise for Otomo came when she received a bicycle that will allow her to get around.
Our staff put their arms around Otomo as she began crying. Otomo said she couldn't believe she was getting all these items. She thanked Samaritan's Purse many times and continued to bow as a sign of respect, crying the entire time.
Then together, Otomo and the Samaritan's Purse staff wheeled out her new bike.
To donate to our emergency relief work in Japan and other parts of the world, please click here.
