Pproject Spring Blossom supports Japan's cleanup effort: 4/29

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Project Spring Blossom supports Japan's effort in cleanup following earthquake

By Robert Koepper, Ph.D.
MUSC International Programs
Every Saturday morning, some MUSC international employees forego a morning of rest and gather to form what has become a unique family. These are the English as a Second Language (ESL) students.

English as a Second Language students contributed their April lesson fees to the Japanese Red Cross as part of Project Spring Blossom.

This group has formed a tight bond through the common challenges they share in a new culture, including learning American English. The recent earthquake and tsunami have brought new challenges: past and present Japanese ESL class members have had tragedy strike close to their families. The wife of Eishi Nishimoto, a former MUSC postdoctoral scholar, had two relatives killed in the recent tragedy. Eiji Suzuki, an MUSC postdoctoral scholar, his wife and two children are here now. Suzuki's parents and brother live about 30 miles from the center of destruction and remain in their home despite the threats to their welfare. Suzuki's wife and children postponed their return to Japan.

MUSC postdoctoral scholar Masayuki Wada's family lives in the far Southwest of Japan. They were not directly impacted by the tragedy but are sharing in the difficulties of seeing their country recover.

As the ESL instructor, I suggested the class initiate Project Spring Blossom. The fees students contribute for their weekly lessons in the month of April will be collected and sent to the Japanese Red Cross, the recipient suggested by the Japanese students and agreed to by the members of the ESL family.

Editor's note: Project Spring Blossom raised $300 which will be donated to the Japanese Red Cross. During the April 21 International Bazaar, the Japanese Earthquake Relief (all Japanese faculty) raised nearly $3,000. To donate to the Japanese Red Cross Society, visit http://tinyurl.com/4eqb6ye.

Friday, April 22, 2011

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