Newsroom

In the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan, Bethel Manor Elementary School (BMES) students and staff have spent three weeks thinking about the families affected by the tragedy. BMES has spent two weeks collecting coins to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The school was able to raise $211.43. In addition, each class read and discussed the story Sadako and the 1000 Paper Cranes. This is a true story of an 11-year-old Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki. She was just 2 when the atom bomb was dropped in Hiroshima. She was later diagnosed with leukemia and ultimately dies from the disease. When Sadako becomes ill, her friend reminds her of signs of hope to keep Sadako strong. One symbol the Japanese recognize is the origami crane. They also believe if a sick person folds on thousand paper cranes, the gods will grant them a wish and make them well again. Sadako attempts to create one thousand cranes.

 

Bethel Manor has worked together for a week to fold and create 1000 paper cranes. The students also created a “thinking of you” sign that reads “Japan, May you be lifted up on eagles wings…” and is signed by every student in the school. They will now ship the 1000 cranes to Japan in optimism that they can make a difference. BMES wants to let them know that they are thinking of them in hope that their wishes may come true.