The People That I’ve Met

Machiko no Ishi has been operating for only about six weeks, but already this small charity has introduced me to some extraordinary people.

I won’t name names here—I’m not sure everyone would be comfortable being identified in a public post—but I would like to share a few reflections.

I’ve met hospice professionals—nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, and others—who confirm my belief that there truly are angels walking among us. Having been a full-time caregiver for nearly two years, I have some understanding of both the weight and the privilege of that role, and of the constant emotional strain it can carry.

I also know the frustration that comes when, despite everything you do, it still doesn’t feel like enough to ease a patient’s suffering.

That there are people who choose this work is remarkable. That they carry it out day after day with professionalism, grace, dignity, empathy, and warmth is something I find genuinely inspiring.

I’ve also met individuals who have stepped forward to support Machiko no Ishi with their time and talents.

That includes my kids, who serve as directors without compensation, perks or recognition, balancing this responsibility alongside careers, families, and all the demands of daily life. Their willingness to help build something meaningful from the ground up means more to me than I can easily put into words.

We also have volunteers—kind, generous people—who translate materials into Japanese and other languages, offer cultural guidance, and prepare the handwritten notes that accompany each plush companion. Others help with the practical work of preparing and shipping the plush companions themselves.

It is humbling to see the care they bring to even the smallest details.

I’ve met people working within community organizations that support elderly individuals and those in hospice or end-of-life care. Others are part of larger networks that bring together multiple charities to serve those in need. Their level of commitment is eye-opening, and their dedication is quietly uplifting.

What has surprised me most is how natural all of this has felt.

I am not, by nature, a particularly outgoing person, and when I launched Machiko no Ishi, I expected that reaching out and meeting people in a field where I had no prior experience might be uncomfortable, even daunting.

Instead, it has been the opposite. Every interaction has been a reminder of the basic goodness of people—their willingness to help, to listen, and to care.

So this is simply a note of thanks.

To everyone I have met along the way—named or unnamed—please know that you are appreciated more than I can say.

Warmly,

Tom