[Japanese Side] "Life is a Runway" The Model Debut Story of an 84-Year-Old Grandmother

A Period of Being Alone After Spouse's Departure
Started Runway Practice Encouraged by Granddaughter

"Because we were together for 60 years, even though I was prepared for it..."

After losing a loved one first, how can we bear that pain?

This week in Japan, a grandmother who was heartbroken after losing her spouse took to the runway at the age of 80, touching many people. Today, we share the story of 84-year-old Eto Michiko, who debuted at the Hiroshima Senior Fashion Show.

Michiko Eto on the runway. (Photo by NHK)

NHK reported on the fashion show held on the 1st in Higashihiroshima City. All the runway models were seniors aged 65 and older. It was a stage meant to give the elderly a sense of fulfillment in life, and participants left positive comments such as "It's been a while since I felt this excitement" and "I feel younger."

The star who closed the show was Michiko.

Michiko originally loved talking, and her spouse was her most precious conversation partner. Her spouse, with whom she had lived for 60 years, passed away two and a half years ago, and Michiko stayed at home alone, watching TV and writing in her diary. She comforted her loneliness by talking to dolls.

The person most worried about this was her granddaughter. She said that her grandmother used to talk well and was lively, but now she wasn’t, which made her feel upset.

Michiko, who lives alone. Behind her, there is a paper attached that says, "Did you take your medicine in the morning, evening, and before bed?" (Photo by NHK)

After seeing the fashion show hosted by Higashihiroshima City, the granddaughter suggested that her grandmother participate.

At first, the grandmother refused, but the granddaughter did not give up and took her to walking lessons held for the show.

Where to place the eyes, how far to walk and turn stylishly, how to express facial expressions... With her granddaughter’s guidance, the grandmother opened her heart and began practicing. After being cooped up at home, chatting with other elderly participants helped her regain a positive personality.

When it came time to choose runway clothes, instead of the kimono she originally planned to wear, she picked out a dress.

"When we got married, it was rare for people to wear dresses. I always longed to try one on." Michiko, who rarely asserted herself, wore a white dress for the first time and took the final runway walk of the show.

On a stage watched by 200 spectators, she confidently walked the 8-meter runway wearing a white dress like a bride. She said she wanted to show it to her husband.

Michiko Eto walking the runway. (Photo by NHK)

She said, "If there had been dresses at our wedding, I would have worn a white dress. My husband must be watching too," and gracefully completed her model walk.

Michiko expressed her desire to continue participating in fashion shows wearing different outfits in the future.

In particular, she left an interview saying, "I will continue to walk the runway of life," which brought tears to the audience’s eyes.

The story of love for her departed spouse and the challenge she achieved at 84 was enough to move everyone.

We will continue to support Michiko’s runway, as she takes a step forward beyond her sorrow.