'Why Did You Leave Japan," usually features people who chose to make their lives abroad after growing up in Japan. This time, however, the column focuses on someone whose family made the decision to leave when he was just 5 — because they could see no other option.
Meet Satoshi Eric Asato, a young man on the autistic spectrum who is known as "Sachi" to his family and friends. Mother Sheila and father Satoru speak on Sachi's behalf about his journey to date.
These days, Sachi lives an ordinary life in the city of Edina, Minnesota, and follows a set routine. This typically includes making his own packed lunch, catching the bus to his job at WorkAbilities Inc., a sheltered workshop, taking a walk or putting in some time on a treadmill after work, and then unwinding with a favorite activity, such as looking up things on Wikipedia or playing video games.
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