My heart aches for the quake-victims: Arata Izumi

He must have adopted an Indian name, Neelkanth, after getting married to a Pune-girl (Shweta) and making the city his second home, but Pune Football Club’s midfielder Arata Izumi’s heart still beats for his country Japan, which is reeling under devastating natural calamities.

“Back home, people close to me are safe, but being Japanese, my heart aches for all those who have suffered,” said Arata who hails from Shimonoseki, situated in the south-west of Japan.

The earthquake and tsunami struck north-west of Japan. The footballer says being a Japanese, earthquakes were not new to him, but the one that shook the country last week, was something he had never heard of.

“I have witnessed many earthquakes, I have never heard of an 8.9 magnitude,” said Arata, who is just waiting to finish his assignment with the I-League and rush back to help people in Japan.

The tragedy has distracted this midfielder. “I would never like to see those pictures again. The waves took everything that came in its way. It hurts a lot to see that,” he said.

“I will do everything, whatever it takes to help all those who have been affected,” said Arata and added, “It will be my pleasure, if I can be of any support and assistance to the victims. I do understand the difficult time people are facing back home.”

Arata has posted a message on his Facebook page to all those who have come forward in helping the suffering which reads: “Hey guys..Thanks for your prayer..I am sure your prayers were heard.”