A Love Beyond Borders! How Yukiko Igarashi from Japan Brought Healthcare and Football to Taitung

The World Baseball Classic 12-team tournament recently concluded, with Taiwan defeating Japan to claim the championship. This match not only showcased sportsmanship but also reinforced the deep bond between Taiwan and Japan. Yet, this friendship extends far beyond the playing field — it has taken root on Taiwanese soil, especially in the eastern region. One remarkable example is Yukiko Igarashi, a new resident from Gunma, Japan, who has brought hope to rural Taitung through her love and actions, nurturing the dreams of healthcare and football.

From "Invisible Pain" to "Heartfelt Care" — The Miracle of Dulan Clinic

In 2017, Yukiko Igarashi and her physician husband made a life-changing decision to establish Dulan Clinic in Taitung, introducing Japan's long-term home healthcare and end-of-life care system to Taiwan. Their goal was simple — to ensure patients were no longer seen as just "patients" but as complete individuals deserving of dignity and care.Yukiko Igarashi and her doctor husband co-founded the Dulan Clinic, introducing Japan's long-term home healthcare and end-of-life care system to Taiwan (Image/Source: Global News for New Residents).

This warmth has changed the lives of countless elderly residents living alone and members of the local community. Alongside founding an association, they partnered with churches and temples to promote community integration. At their Mipaliw service center, they offer medical consultations, charity sales, and film screenings — transforming healthcare from a cold clinical experience into a warm and culturally enriched environment.

Kicking Off Life-Changing Football! Building a Stage for Taitung's Children

Yukiko Igarashi's influence doesn't stop at healthcare. She quickly realized that many children in rural Taitung, especially those from disadvantaged or grandparent-led families, lacked not only material resources but also emotional support and guidance.

Determined to help, she launched an after-school tutoring program, enabling children to build confidence through learning and sports. She went a step further by organizing the "5-A-Side Football Star Match – East Coast Football Star Match," where children could shine on the field, developing not just their football skills but also teamwork and perseverance.

This event received support from the National Immigration Agency's "Dream Building Project," turning what once seemed like an impossible dream into a tangible goal that children could now reach for.

Loving Taiwan More Than Some Taiwanese! Proving That "Home" Is Where the Heart Belongs

Yukiko Igarashi doesn't rely on grand statements — she lets her actions speak for themselves. Through her dedication, she brought warmth to healthcare and guided rural children toward a brighter future. Her hands have planted seeds of change on this land, touching the hearts of countless Taiwanese people.A new resident from Japan has taken real action to make her community a better place, bringing hope and light to those around her. (Image/Source: Global News for New Residents)

"She loves this land even more than many Taiwanese themselves."

Thanks to her efforts, Taitung's elderly residents can now enjoy a peaceful and secure retirement, while its children no longer feel lost about their future. Yukiko Igarashi has not only transformed a community — she has shaped an entire generation.

Memorable Quote:"When you devote yourself wholeheartedly to every moment, your perspective will ultimately shape the outcome."