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Hiroshima bombing survivor shares her experience on Nov. 15

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Shigeko Sasamori, a Hiroshima atomic bomb survivor, will speak at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 15, in the Forum Building, Room 105, at the University Park campus of Penn State.

On Aug. 6, 1945, Shigeko Sasamori survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima when she was only 13 years old.  Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

On Aug. 6, 1945, Sasamori survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima when she was only 13 years old. Her face, chest, arms, hands and neck suffered severe trauma, and more than 25% of her body was burned. Despite these injuries, she persevered.

Her story took a positive turn in 1955, when Norman Cousins, American journalist and peace activist, brought a group of 25 victims of the atomic bomb attack to America for reconstructive surgery. These girls were referred to as the “Hiroshima Maidens,” and Sasamori was one of them. 

Sasamori was later adopted by the Cousins' family, continued her education in America, and became a nurse. She has dedicated her life to promoting worldwide peace and spreading the message of Hiroshima.

This is a rare opportunity to hear a Hiroshima bombing survivor share her story of hope and courage. Sponsored by the Japanese program and the Department of Asian Studies, this event is free and open to the public. 

For more information, email Erika Hirano or Ran Zwigenberg.

Last Updated October 24, 2019

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