Shigeko Sasamori, a survivor of the Hiroshima atomic bombing who later became a peace advocate and nurse’s aide, passed away on December 15 at her home in Marina del Rey, California, at the age of 92. Her son, Norman Cousins Sasamori, confirmed her death.
Ms. Sasamori was known for her gentle yet firm advocacy against nuclear warfare, addressing various audiences, including students and U.S. Senate members. In 1980, she expressed her mission to prevent future nuclear tragedies, stating, “I have a mission to tell people that this should not happen again.”
Her death occurred shortly after the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a grassroots organization of atomic bomb survivors, recognizing their efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons.
On August 6, 1945, at the age of 13, Ms. Sasamori was in Hiroshima, tasked with clearing debris when the atomic bomb was dropped. She recalled hearing a buzzing sound and then a powerful explosion that knocked her unconscious. Upon regaining consciousness, she found herself in a devastated landscape, struggling to locate her parents amidst the chaos.
Ms. Sasamori suffered severe burns covering one-third of her body. After several days, her parents found her, and she underwent treatment for her injuries, which included extensive reconstructive surgeries in the United States arranged by Norman Cousins.
In 1955, she was one of 25 women known as the Hiroshima Maidens who received surgical treatment at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. Following her surgeries, she expressed gratitude for the kindness she received in the U.S. and emphasized her desire for peace, stating, “Oh, but there mustn’t be any more war.”
Born on June 16, 1932, in Hiroshima, Ms. Sasamori experienced the horrors of the bombing firsthand. After her recovery, she returned to the U.S. and became an active participant in peace movements, including a notable march to the United Nations on the anniversary of the bombing in 1958.
Ms. Sasamori lived with the Cousins family for about 15 years, who provided her with support and a sense of family. She worked as a nurse’s aide and cared for various patients, including notable figures. Throughout her life, she participated in documentaries about nuclear warfare and shared her experiences with younger generations through programs like Hibakusha Stories.
She is survived by her son and two grandchildren. Ms. Sasamori's legacy as a peace advocate and her commitment to sharing her story will continue to inspire future generations.