Kumamoto Doctor Provides Vital Care to Earthquake Evacuees

In the wake of last month’s devastating earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, Dr. Hitoshi Kuwahara, chief of Diamond City Clinic in Uki, is stepping up to support evacuees at local shelters. The 61-year-old physician, who has dedicated nearly 30 years to community health, believes it is his duty to assist those affected by the disaster.

The earthquake, which reached a seismic intensity of level 7, caused significant damage to the clinic and the nearby Aeon Mall Uki, where tragically, one individual lost their life. Despite the destruction that forced his clinic to close temporarily, Kuwahara wasted no time in providing care, spending two days clearing his own home before heading to the shelters.

Understanding that many evacuees, particularly the elderly, face mobility challenges, Kuwahara often retrieves medications from nearby towns and helps monitor their health, especially blood pressure, which tends to rise under stress. "I feel responsibility as a primary care physician," he stated. To further assist, he has initiated a crowdfunding campaign to establish a temporary clinic, aiming to raise ¥6 million ($38,000) by the end of October. "I hope people can return to their normal lives as soon as possible," he added.

Source: www.japantimes.co.jp