Acceptance of Disability ◆ A Path Toward Rediscovering the Self

Chunichi Shimbun Morning Edition, June 2, 2006

Some people, after becoming doctors or lawyers, fall into the trap of believing they have become superior as human beings. The protagonist Henry, in the 1991 American film Regarding Henry starring Harrison Ford, is one such conceited and highly successful elite lawyer.

One day, however, Henry is caught in a robbery at a convenience store and is shot in the head, damaging his frontal lobe. He loses his memory and cannot even recall his wife and daughter. At the rehabilitation center, he shuts himself off emotionally. But thanks to the cheerful and persistent care of his trainer, he gradually begins to recover.

Henry's wife and daughter are heartbroken that he cannot remember them, but they begin to find joy in his childlike innocence and sincerity. Together, they build a new kind of family relationship.

As Henry slowly relearns how to speak and read, he returns to his law firm. However, he is hurt by whispers behind his back, calling him a “freeloader.” Conflicts also arise regarding his wife's past. Still, the new Henry understands that there are more important things in life than money or status.

He learns that he once engaged in dishonest legal defense in a medical malpractice case, siding with the hospital. Determined to leave his career behind, he delivers crucial evidence to the plaintiff’s family. His declaration, “I've changed,” carries the strength of someone who has experienced vulnerability.

Rehabilitation is not just about regaining lost functions. This film tells us that even if one's previous abilities are gone, it is possible to live with new values—rediscovering oneself in the process.

In Japan too, many people suffer from frontal lobe damage due to traumatic brain injuries or strokes, making everyday social life a challenge. With various lingering symptoms, some are unable to return to work. Recently, recovery centers for such "higher brain dysfunctions" have begun to be established in Japan, and specialized rehabilitation facilities are gradually expanding.

"Rehabilitation" originally means “the restoration of full human rights.” Acceptance and overcoming of disability remain major challenges for many individuals with disabilities.