This is a bit different from my usual rants in a way, but then again it’s not. This is a story about someone with medical problems of grave severity for his age, whose parents eithe don’t understand the meaning of compassion or who have actively chosen to turn their back on their son.
The pages at takumisheart.com tell the story in detail. I’ll summarize the key points:
Takumi is in his mid-twenties, was born in Italy and is currently living in Japan with his parents. In January of this year he suffered two heart attacks, and in February had a third heart attack and a stroke. He had surgery and his current symptoms keep him homebound most of the time.
Up until his medical problems, he was staying with his parents. Their response to his medical problems, particularly the stroke and resulting hospital bill, was to evict him! His father destroyed many of Takumi’s possessions including a computer and a camera. Their rationale for this is that Takumi is their “child of sin” because he’s gay, which is, in my eyes, an incredibly pathetic excuse to turn their back on him when he needs them most.
Nowhere does it say what religion Takumi’s parents are, but regardless of that, this is no way to treat one’s offspring. The Christian Bible has this to say: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:12-13) I would expect other holy texts to contain similar verses.
Some kind people have already helped out, but he still needs more help; according to the figures on the website as of this writing, at least another US$640 (which would cover one month of rehab) and possibly more than that if he needs surgery again.
I know I’ve got a few loyal readers out there. I’m not sure who I’ve lost or gained in the past few months, but I’d like to think a significant chunk of that $640 from just readers of this blog is achievable easily. Let’s help Takumi out. He’s way too young for this. If you can’t chip in, spread the word.
Shawn, thank you. I came across your post when I did a google search for takumisheart. I’m Theo, the friend who set up the site. I very much appreciate your post. If anyone has questions, concerns, or suggestion please send them to me on the site. And of course donations are more than welcome. We had to pay $775 yesterday for an unexpected eye surgery for Takumi so we’re struggling to just stay above water. Many thanks for your help!