Run for Every Inspiring Mother: Olympic Torchbearer Kahori Sugihara's Dedication for Parents Raising Disabled or Impaired Children

In May 2018, Kahori Sugihara, a dedicated logistics coordinator at Toyota, returned to work after taking a leave of absence for childcare purposes. Sugihara, who has worked for the company for 17 years, is now back to her role, coordinating with external suppliers, amidst Toyota's major procurement and logistics reform project.

Sugihara's journey as a working mother took a significant turn when her son, who has cerebral palsy, was granted access to a city-designated nursery school in April 2019. This development has had a positive impact on her son's progress, with him learning to walk without assistance and attempting to run.

Sugihara's commitment to her role and family has not gone unnoticed. Her supervisor, Kruse, has been a constant source of support, acting more like family than a manager. This support extended to Sugihara during her parental leaves.

Sugihara's dedication and resilience have made her a role model, not just for her sons, but for many others. Her selection as a torchbearer for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Torch Relay is a testament to her spirit. She is inspiring those around her as a 'one-of-a-kind-hero.'

Sugihara's colleagues and manager are showing their support by planning to leave work early to cheer for her as a torchbearer. This event has also increased the atmosphere of encouragement within the Toyota team.

However, Sugihara's journey as a working mother has not been without challenges. She has faced difficult questions regarding her employment status as a mother of a child with a disability. Despite these challenges, Sugihara wants to show mothers of children with disabilities that they can return to the workforce if they choose to.

Sugihara is an advocate for work style reform, an initiative aimed at improving efficiency while utilising remote work. She wants to teach her sons the importance of taking on challenges and being grateful for the support of others. Moreover, she believes that developmental support facilities are essential for children with disabilities, but finds the rule requiring a parent's presence to be a hindrance.

Sugihara's story is one of resilience, dedication, and inspiration. As she carries the Olympic torch, she is not just a symbol of the Olympics, but a beacon of hope for working mothers everywhere.

Run for Every Inspiring Mother: Olympic Torchbearer Kahori Sugihara's Dedication for Parents Raising Disabled or Impaired Children