The disaster dealt it's greatest blow to children, killing more than 19,000 as they sat in their classrooms or helped their mothers with the daily chores at home. An estimated 2.2 million children were affected, including more than 10,000 who lost at least one parent.

Amidst the solemnity of remembrance, some of the most vulnerable survivors are showing signs of renewed hope. One year on, the needs of the country remain great. The memories of loss and the years of recovery ahead, are evident in the hearts of survivors as well as their devastated communities. Photographs by John Schenk and Dana Palade.