AkiUta

"Akiuta" (Song for Aki)

This song is dedicated to my friend named "Aki."

She is a vibrant and cheerful presence, like a shining sun illuminating those around her. One day, I received an email from her, revealing that she had been diagnosed with advanced-stage stomach cancer called "Scirrhous Gastric Cancer" and had been given a terminal prognosis.

At stage 4, surgery was not an option, and time was running out. In her message, Aki poured out her heartfelt thoughts.

I was overwhelmed by the situation, and shortly after, I received another email from Aki. She wrote, "I need positive words. Can you share some with me?"

Through tears, I immediately replied, "Leave it to me," but I wondered, what could I do in my current state? No matter how much I pondered, I felt utterly powerless, lamenting my own limitations.

However, I couldn't bear the thought of doing nothing.

Even if I felt powerless, could I somehow bring a glimmer of hope to her, who was fighting despair every day?

Could I send her positive words... Could I find a way?

Desperately, I racked my brain.

Then, it struck me. I decided to send a song to Aki.

Aki had always come to my live performances, wholeheartedly supporting my dream of singing on big stages. From the stage, I would see Aki, always smiling and enjoying herself.

If I could send her a song, even just a little, could I bring some light to her?

That's when I decided to create this song, "Akiuta."

Sadly, Aki's wish did not come true, and not long after, she embarked on her journey to heaven. I never had the chance to hear her directly listen to this song. However, I believe that this song has reached her in heaven.

Currently, there are many people who are suffering and fighting through various challenges. While I don't possess any special power, I hope this song can become a source of inspiration, a spark of hope for those individuals, even if it's just a little.

This song is my heartfelt dedication to those who never give up, my wholehearted cheer.

Takahiro Kuroki