A Path to Polio Eradication Connected by Motorcycles

Polio Eradication as a Lifelong Pursuit

When I reached retirement age, I began seriously reflecting on how I could spend the rest of my life contributing to society. A major turning point came when I learned about Team Polio Japan’s oral vaccine administration volunteer activities in the December 2019 issue of Rotary-no-Tomo magazine.

On January 19 of the following year, I took part in Polio Vaccination Day in India and witnessed the situation there firsthand. That experience taught me a simple but powerful truth: vaccination is the greatest gift we can give to protect children’s health.

The key to eradicating polio lies in the oral polio vaccine. It provides maximum protection at minimal cost, making it one of the most effective tools available. Each individual’s support helps safeguard the future health of countless children. This realization led me to decide to make polio eradication my life’s work.

To take action, I chose to combine my experience and passion for motorcycling with fundraising by traveling across Japan. My goal was to raise funds that could be used to provide polio vaccines. The Rotary philosophy of “Service Above Self,” along with its emphasis on fellowship, gave me the motivation and confidence to take this step.

End Polio’s Message Broadcast Nationwide

The journey began at the Tokyo Kojimachi Rotary Club, a historic club that participated in polio vaccination activities in the Philippines from Japan in the early 1980s. Out of deep respect for that legacy, I selected it as my starting point. My destination and final stop was the Fukuoka Southeast Rotary Club.

Over the course of eight months—from April to November 2026—I traveled approximately 18,000 kilometers and visited 94 Rotary clubs. The motorcycle that carried me across the country was a Honda Rebel 250cc.

At each Rotary Club I visited, I did three things: exchanging banners, delivering a three-minute speech, and taking a commemorative photograph with my motorcycle. In my speeches, I shared updates on the situation in countries where polio has not yet been eradicated—particularly Pakistan—and stressed the importance of continuing fundraising efforts until eradication is achieved.

The commemorative photos, taken with club members gathered around the motorcycle, became far more than records of visits. They raised awareness about polio, sparked conversations and smiles, and helped build trust and friendship. These moments became valuable opportunities for genuine connection. One unexpected joy was unfolding a map of Japan and marking each club I had visited along the way.

During my visits, I decorated both my motorcycle and my clothing with the “End Polio” logo and rode through cities wearing a bright red T-shirt. I continued to wear this T-shirt even on my days off, calling for polio donations directly on the streets.

These efforts attracted attention from various media outlets, including radio programs, newspapers, and FM broadcasts. The coverage helped spread awareness of polio eradication efforts and contributed to enhancing Rotary’s public image.

I am scheduled to participate in my fourth polio vaccination campaign in Pakistan on January 10 of next year.

The Power of Rotary and the Future

Through my motorcycle journey across the Japanese archipelago and my encounters with Rotarians nationwide, I have come to realize something deeply meaningful: Rotary is an organization that empowers people to learn, take action, and serve communities around the world. The friendships formed among Rotarians provide energy, support, and inspiration.

The day when Rotary eradicates polio and makes history is not just a hope—it is an achievable goal. If Rotarians around the world remain committed, “End Polio” will surely be realized.

I will continue reaching people across Japan through my motorcycle fundraising efforts, always striving to create a visible, meaningful, and lasting impact.