Japan Relief

As we struggle to comprehend the devastation in Japan, we also reach out to help those affected.

March 18, 2011

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students:

The earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan March 11 produced catastrophic devastation and human suffering on a scale difficult to imagine. News and images from the island nation serve as unsettling reminders of the fragility of life in the face of nature’s great strength. That Japan and the United States share similarities in technology and economic wealth prompts us to reflect upon our own readiness for such events and compels us to provide aid in whatever ways we can.

It is the culture of our community to be supportive of those in our midst who might be touched in a personal way by this tragedy.

More than 70 of our medical school faculty, students and staff list Japan as their country of origin. It is the culture of our community to be supportive of those in our midst who might be touched in a personal way by this tragedy. To them in particular, and to all members of the community who have ties to Japan and colleagues or collaborators there, we extend our sincerest hopes and wishes that your family and friends are safe and well.

Please learn about relief efforts for the Washington University community on the Washington University website. This information will be updated as new information becomes available.

Many of you already are finding ways to help the people of Japan as they confront the ongoing crisis and begin to rebuild their lives after such immense loss. Several fund-raising efforts are being undertaken by our faculty, staff and students, which we hope you will support.

Sincerely,

Larry J. Shapiro, M.D.
Executive Vice Chancellor for Medical Affairs and
Dean of Washington University School of Medicine