Hometown Stories S2019E24 - A Will to Survive

For more than 4 decades, Fumie Murakami has suffered from a mysterious illness that was finally diagnosed as Minamata disease. Caused by organic mercury poisoning in the sea, the disease has also taken a toll far away, in inland communities. Learning the truth leaves Fumie feeling both relieved and guilty -- she realizes the fish sold at her family's store likely sickened local people. Now in her late 80's, she's fighting to secure government relief for victims as she continues to live life looking forward.