In this story from the Radio Diaries’ series “The Unmarked Graveyard: Stories from Hart Island,” we learn about a woman named Hisako Hasegawa, who lived in room 208 of The Belvedere Hotel in Manhattan for over 40 years. Hasegawa was born in Japan and came to New York in the 1970s. She was well-liked among the hotel staff and known for her acts of kindness, such as sending thank you letters and hand-drawn cards. Despite living in close proximity to her neighbors, Hasegawa remained a mystery, rarely speaking to anyone. When she passed away, she was buried in a mass grave on Hart Island, leaving behind questions about her life and loved ones. The story also highlights the decline of affordable housing options in New York City, particularly single room occupancy units.
https://www.npr.org/2023/11/15/1213003434/she-lived-in-a-new-york-hotel-for-more-than-40-years-but-her-life-was-a-mystery