Members' Stories

“Ibasho no Ibasho”, a “place to stay''. at Polaris Morishita Cafe, has a variety of volunteer crews.
This is from Ms. Ueno, who is also a founding member, about our activities.

National qualifications: Public Health Nurse, Midwife, Registered Nurse, Certified Public Psychologist

How I met Polaris and Why I'm here

It was because of some unexpected events that lead to my activities here in Polaris.

I have worked as a nurse in an acute care hospital for long.
I have also worked with music, which I have continued to pursue as a hobby, in my activities.
When I was thinking about to be more active in the community, a care manager told me,
``Are you interested in a day service that utilizes music?''
It was my first point of contact of Polaris.

However, at that time, we were facing the coronavirus pandemic.

I couldn't find the right time to visit,
Finally I decided to join during last fall.

I met the representative Ms. Miyagawa and hit off over the keyword "social prescription".

My intention was to help out a little at the daycare service when I had the time, but in the blink of an eye, various activities started to take place. For example,
``Health consultation Room'', ``Singing Cafe'', ``Relaxing Cafe for Girls''...
It gives me a sense of wonder that we get something that we have wanted to do.

What I want to achieve through our activities

Each patient who comes to the hospital has their own life in their community.
This is obvious, but when you're in a hospital, sometimes you don't see things that well.
In order for people living in their community to live their own lives, it is necessary to maintain and improve their health in a broad sense.
On the other hand, it is impossible for hospitals and healthcare providers to create and maintain it alone.

Here “Ibasho no Ibasho”, a “place to stay''、
We can talk anything and have face-to-face relationships.
And I hope this place where we can connect us to medical care, welfare, and government when we need.
Since my involvement in Polaris' activities, I have met many encouraging friends.
And it's increasing everyday.

It's not just on a profession.
for example, I think it's really powerful that people who come to the cafe casually end up volunteering at the children's cafeteria the following week.

The power of those who have gathered will grow and support each other.
I think this creates a wonderful cycle.
May this continue to grow and become something you can rely on!

Singing Cafe

“Singing Cafe” is held on the third Saturday of every month, where you can enjoy various songs along with Ms. Ueno's wonderful piano performance!
Reservations are accepted through Instagram. Please feel free to join us!

*If you have difficulty accessing Instagram, please let us know in the comments.