The journey of life often takes unexpected turns, leading individuals to paths of profound purpose. Yui Furuya, a 30-year-old physiotherapist, exemplifies this truth as she transitions from Hiroshima to Fiji, where she is making a significant impact on the lives of children with physical disabilities.
Raised in Hiroshima, Ms. Furuya spent her formative years in her grandparents’ care while her parents worked, surrounded by love and support that shaped her compassionate character. Initially dreaming of becoming a flight attendant to see the world, she faced an unexpected reality when her height did not meet the requirements. This setback redirected her ambitions, leading her to consider a career rooted in professional skills and human connection, inspired in part by her mother’s nursing career and her experience teaching swimming to children.
Her commitment to helping others ultimately guided her to physiotherapy. Eager to maintain her global connections, Ms. Furuya pursued a month-long language program in Malta and traveled to visit friends she had met abroad. A pivotal moment in her educational journey came when she met a graduate working with JICA in Timor-Leste, which sparked her passion for contributing to developing countries.
With years of experience in areas like diabetes and pediatric rehabilitation, she embraced the opportunity to work in Fiji. There, she not only follows a path she once admired but also finds joy in facilitating her own study tour for students and professors from Hiroshima. As a physiotherapist at the Frank Hilton Organisation, she works diligently to enhance the quality of life for children with physical disabilities and their families through rehabilitation therapies both at their center and in home settings.
The challenges of adapting to a new culture and overcoming language barriers have tested her resilience; however, the unwavering support from her Fijian friends has had a profound impact on her outlook. Their encouragement has inspired her to view even small achievements in a positive light, affirming that every little action positively affects those around her.
With her return to Japan on the horizon, Ms. Furuya remains dedicated to strengthening pediatric rehabilitation services in Fiji. She knows that even minor efforts can elicit smiles and hopes to sustain this mindset after her return as she aims to enter graduate school.
Ms. Furuya’s journey is a powerful reminder that life’s unexpected twists can lead to meaningful contributions. Her encouraging words, “If there’s something you want to try, just go for it,” resonate as a call to embrace opportunities, regardless of age, highlighting that each moment is an invitation to grow and inspire others.
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