What it's Like Getting Hit by a Truck in Japan

Got hit by a truck in Tokyo, Japan... Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ nordvpn.com/tokyolens Risk-free with Nord's 30-day money-back guarantee! Here is the story of what it's like to get hit by a truck in Japan, and everything that follows from the police, to the insurance company, lawyers, and beyond...
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*Where to Send Stuff* - As of 10.2021
Norm Nakamura - Tokyo Creative Redhorse Corporation Co. Ltd
1-10-5 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Kokugikan Front Bldg 2F
130-0015
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[@TokyoLens]

Huge Thanks to NordVPN for always supporting this channel! Check it out here: nordvpn.com/tokyolens *If you have questions, or experience like this in Japan, please feel free to drop it in the comments so we can all learn!* And thanks to all of you for the patience as it took me a little while to get the time to put this together!! PS -- The plush is linked as promised, and a MASSIVE debt of gratitude to the patreon crew who has been so supportive through all of this!

[@Elisabeht-Swan]

I am glad your injury wasn't any worse 😲 And I hope you will be able to play your shamishisen. Please take care of yourself. ❤️

[@Aoiichi]

Wow. I thought this was going to be an isekai joke . Glad you're okay dude.

[@pollyanna108]

Thank goodness that you have recovered already.

[@youtubeisproCCP]

@Tokyo Lens In Sydney in 2017 I compound (bone came out) fractured my tibia and fibula in a motorcycle accident at 50kph. Wasn’t my fault at all. Goofy driver pulled out in-front of me. 23 days in hospital. 14 months with crutches. I USED to teach skiing. Got a lawyer. 2 years later 570,000 Australian dolleridoos. Became a pilot in Australia. You WILL become a pilot. Do not let it stop you. Use the broken finger as you loss of income, mental suffering etc, thats how we milked it. Btw I live in Japan and can hardly speak Japanese. I fear for the day when I get into another motorcycle or car accident lmao

[@fenrirr22]

Have you watched the anime Those snow white notes? It is about the shamisen, you would probably like it. I hope you will get better, and can play the instrument again, and that you will be able to settle the whole legal thing as quickly as possible.

[@aspherr_]

Norm almost got isekai’d 😂 In all seriousness tho, glad u recovered and are back in good condition 🙌

[@rcrallyevox918]

Omfg xD

[@TokyoLens]

Hahaha 😝 Isekai comments require attention to the shamisen plush 😂 😜

[@phrawstbyte9886]

Yeah, truck-kun isnt a joke.

[@rcrallyevox918]

@@TokyoLens we need a truck-kun plush now hahaha

[@n0madfernan257]

i bet in the other world he will be a real-estate apartment mogul trying to save everyone from homelessness

[@jeannette6676]

‘May never play the shamisen again’ my heart DROPPED. I’m SO so glad that nothing worse happened to you, this notification alone startled me so bad! I hope all the best for you and your pinky, hope that physical therapy comes in clutch ❤

[@TokyoLens]

Thank you 😔 ♥️

[@Spangletiger]

Jeanette, I think you speak for us all. My heart also sank.

[@Cir4Wushu]

Yeah, same here. Actually, if I remember correctly, I _found_ his videos via a Shamisen video (it's a bit hazy, since I remember seeing a shamisen video among the very first of his videos I ever saw, but I'm not 100% sure if it was the very first one). So I've always kind of mentally connected him with a shamisen. Hopefully the finger heals well, and one way or another you'll be able to play the shamisen again, as well and better as before. I keep wondering if it broke weirdly, didn't heal correctly or something? Since to my experience as long as the bones heal properly, they rarely should become any weaker (although there may be issues like limited mobility).

[@sarahgwynnie]

Same 😢

[@Donvermicelli]

Couldn't have said this better, when I first saw the injuries and no further updates on flight school I assumed the worst and thought it might have been a plane related accident 😱. Hearing that it was truck related and that Norm might never play shamisen again made me slightly relieved but heartbroken at the same time. It's an incredible testament to Norm's character that he's able to remain so calm and speak frankly about it all despite having gone through something so traumatic. Best wishes and hoping you make a full recovery 💪

[@PapaJohnsonjr]

My heart broke when you said you might not be able to play the shamisen again and not able to fly?? Man that sucks and I hope everything works out for you! You even got to train under one of the Yoshida brothers which is amazing! Wishing you get a full recovery.

[@JohnAldenDavis]

As a fellow musician, I cannot imagine being able to handle the shock of being told such news. I almost cried just now. Praying for a full recovery, and thankful you’re able to at least continue with the video content! 🙏🏻

[@goudagirl6095]

10 years of practice and training. Egads. Would be crushing (no pun intended).

[@ScorchedEclipse]

i too almost cried hearing that, i can't imagine not being able to play instruments again :'( there's also the possibility of affecting his flight capabilities ;-;

[@cjd5235]

Me too. How heartbreaking.

[@christianmino3753]

I am grateful for him that he will at least be able to play the guitar again. I was a pianist, long long ago before i broke my arm, my wrist and two fingers on my right hand. Luckily I had also started playing guitar so when I recovered piano would hurt after about ten minutes of play-time. Had I been a seasoned pianist I would be able to play a little bit on one or two of my songs but unfortunately I was still a beginner so It doesn't make sense to try and do that because I just don't have much skill. I was crushed, yes, but MUCH less crushed than not being able to make any music whatsoever. Thankfully norm started on a guitar (or bass guitar I can't remember) so YES IT FUCKING SUCKS for him and his livelihood that he spent so much time on (including him possibly not being able to fly) but at least for HIS SOUL he can still express himself. I'm trying to find the small good here so please don't crucify me. I'm not downplaying this whatsoever just pointing out that thankfully he can still make some kind of music. This sucks terribly though. Hope he has recovered well I'm going to check the page now. It's been a while since I've watched/listened to norm on youtube and his podcast.

[@Youngpoet15]

Glad you’re ok! My husband was hit by a Buick while he’s was on a bicycle. He also is ok, but the broken bones in his leg have definitely changed his life. I hope your arm heals and you will get back to your instrument without issue. ❤

[@TokyoLens]

Small breaks even… can just change so much~ I’m glad your husband is ok

[@helowgaes7544]

Uhhh dayum that's must be very frickin hurt bruh,, hope ur husband its get well soon 🤗

[@zeusolympus1664]

@@TokyoLens for finger training you can try different finger exercises and handwriting exercise. When I was 5 yrs old, I got burn on my hand and face due to firework. Now I am 17 and fully recovered, but during that time I did a lot of hand exercises. After a year, I was able to write again properly. Now I am an ameteur artist and high schooler. Your hand looks in much better condition, and you might be able to recover in a few months.

[@puggyr650]

@@zeusolympus1664 sustaining and recovering from serious injuries r a lot easier and hopeful when ur young. Even in your early 30's, it gets much harder to completely recover. But either way, I hope norm does make a complete recovery

[@Joebusyguns]

This was a rough one to watch. Sorry to hear about this Norm but glad to hear you’re on the up and up. Praying for a full recovery so you can hold onto your shamisen dream!

[@joefenech6839]

As a road biker, Norm, I am very sympathetic and troubled by your horrible accident. I constantly worry about just such an event. You are right to say that you are lucky. That truck could have finished you. I will be interested to see how the liability works out. You were doing all the right things and I would expect you to bare 0 fault. Losing the shamisen Is a hard pill to swallow. I think in the long run you will workaround your injuries and be able to play in some capacity . ( always remember the drummer for Def Leppard, Rick Allen…much more Extreme of an injury, but a good example of a musician over coming adversity) At any rate, Norm, Good luck and look forward to more of your channel. It always gives me a great look into Japan!

[@jasonm7973]

Stay off the road with your bike lest you meet the same fate or worse. Bikes don't belong on the road, especially in north America.

[@tomfromoz]

@@jasonm7973 Australia is *WORSE* !!! I drove trucks, and buses in NY & NJ and on a university campus, but that's cake compared to WA. Here, you have give them a metre (3'3"), even if they're on the line of the bike lane and that forces you into another lane! When that law was passed, arguments online were almost violent. The only way to shut them down is with math. Ask them how many feet does it take for a ___lb vehicle, travelling at __mph, on dry road, on a clear day to stop. The answer is simple. More than _FIVE FEET!_ *Tom's wife Pam*

[@edgyname507]

Dude, this shocked and hurt me more than any other youtuber who has been hurt or gotten sick in the past. Glad you're doing better.

[@zeebzeebo]

This video MESSED ME UP. I found myself almost crying at the end. I hope he manages to make a full recovery and continues to follow his dreams.

[@Daxle]

I found myself going "oh no!" Several times during this video. So sorry you had to go through all this, Norm. You're definitely one of the nicest guys on youtube. I'm impressed by your positivity and not letting yourself just get all down and angery by this situation, like anyone else would. Best of luck with everything!!

[@lindalangy4714]

I'm glad nothing worse happened, but also so sorry that it was as bad as it was! Besides the accident itself, potentially having to give up on such important parts of your life must be so hard to bear. You're amazing for staying so strong

[@JennDouglas]

Having lived in Japan from 2017-2019 I can say that one of the biggest reasons for Japan's record low crime-rate is yes, it is safe in general, but the police will always try to put blame on you and pressure you into not filing charges/reporting the crime. No reported crimes = no crime committed. That being said: I'm hoping your prognosis turns out to be best case scenario!!!

[@Drummerchick2003]

That explains a lot.

[@benjamin9120]

lol no.

[@novrinkov0053]

japanese police has no portrait rights by law,people can recording all the time even in police stations japanese police is obliged to show identify himself with a police note by law(full name,department,everything), if what you said happened those people can report on social media like twitter or TV stations, These days it's impossible to hide those things

[@Darkvoidninja]

unexplained murders are classed as suicide as well.

[@NotKimiRaikkonen]

It's also considered quite shameful to report things like assaults.

[@joakimgus]

It’s heartbreaking to hear that there is a risk that you might not be able to play again knowing how important it is to you. I am so glad that you are healing and that somehow your positivity is still intact. Sending love and wishes for a speedy recovery from Sweden!

[@nerd26373]

This is a useful and informative video. Tokyo Lens is one of the best channels that centers around Japanese culture, traditions, norms, etiquette, so on and so forth. I hope he continues to succeed more in what he loves doing the most.

[@TokyoLens]

Too kind~

[@grievous79]

It's just the one norm actually 😉

[@danielletilliepoledance]

As a musician of my entire life… “I may never play つがるしゃみせん again” just pierced my heart. 🥺 I’m so sorry this has happened to you. I hope with therapy maybe you could play again someday. ❤

[@TokyoLens]

Thank you so much for those kind words It honestly feels like it’s going to be an eternal choice between the shamisen and the future dream of flying~ Maybe someday it will heal enough~

[@danielletilliepoledance]

@@TokyoLens I had shoulder surgery last year and broke my ankle this year and thought I’d never pole dance again (dancer/instructor of over a decade), but I restarted a couple weeks ago. Healing can take a very long time. Patience, therapy, & consistency helped!

[@BananahTV]

Man, I am so sorry to hear all of this happened and is happening, I know you're still recovering but so glad you're okay. I hope you continue to stay strong and positive and know you have a community that has your back 🫂

[@derek.thomas0061]

Hello 👋 👋

[@ouchsicle]

Mad props to you for still being so upbeat about all that has happened. I really do hope that when all of this is over and it's been long past you can look back on it as just a minor blip that happened in your life and nothing more. Hoping for the best for you Norm.

[@veganryori]

I swear, you're doing everything I did in Japan just 15 years later 😱 Glad you're ok, when I got hit I broke my back and was in hospital for two months 😬👀 The police were the worst part "blame the gaijin" in full force 💀 (it was not my fault I did not 'jump in front of the speeding car' 🙈) my advice? Please look into trauma therapy. Losing playing shamisen and potentially flying, even if you end up being able to do both (I'm sure you will!) just the thought of it is traumatic so please look into it. I haven't been able to ride a bike since 2008 due to the accident, so this sounds so familiar to me. お大事に!

[@veganryori]

In case anyone was wondering, I've been back to Japan many times since the accident, even to the location (don't recommend that 🤣) Do I still get back pain? Yes. Did I run the Nagoya Women's Marathon 10 years after the accident and finish it? Also yes 💪

[@angelsinthewindow]

Have you looked at those sitting bikes? The ones where its like a normal seat with a back on it and you can peddle with the three wheels? not sure what else they are called. (unless its a trauma thing, then please ignore my stupid idea) I have heard from some people its a little easier on the back though I don't know how bad your back problem is. I'm sorry your still having so much pain with your back and congrats on the marathon at least!

[@alperens5446]

@@angelsinthewindow I think these are called recumbent bikes. They seem much more comfortable than normal ones.

[@angelsinthewindow]

@@alperens5446 It depends on the type of back pain buy ya, some of my friends have found them much easier to use then normal bikes cause of their pain. As someone who is disabled myself, I am always trying to help people find other ways to get around disabilities so they can do what they love. My mind works strangely where I can help other people rather easily but for my own disability, I have trouble helping myself... of course this is all null and void if I read it wrong and the reason they don't ride is trauma and not back pain so ya...

[@kristin7146]

@@veganryori Congrats on the marathon! That's awesome! Strengthening things up is one of the best things you can do for your body (if it's doable and safe, of course).

[@carmenation]

😱 I am so glad that you are ok and healing! I wish for a full recovery where you can continue shamisen and get your pilot license!!! You got this!!!! 💪💪💪

[@xXRavynAverreXx]

Norm I understand what you've gone through all too well. I was in a single vehicle rollover accident that cost me my life for just a few minutes but cost me 50% of my total fingers. Not only that but the accident cost me my music (guitar and piano) and military careers before they got to start. It's been 15 years and still to this day I struggle to do everyday tasks. I'm glad that you were not more seriously hurt but I know all too well what the loss of your music is like. If you want to talk more about the journey to recovery, you can ask me any question you need to and I will answer it. If you struggle with anything, especially the mental side of things, don't hesitate to message me. I am here for you man. Just like you have given me insight into Japan all these years, I can help you if you need it. Love ya man.

[@gtan]

I live here in Tokyo and also a premanent resident. I'm wondering what would happen in my case if I spoke very little to no Japanese - this would be so traumatic I don't know what would I do Thanks for telling your story, glad to know you're okay and still able to make videos but I'm so sorry about the impact to your life.

[@veganryori]

You learn a lot in hospital because nobody speaks English 😅 In my case, in two months only one doctor spoke English, but he came in, spoke in perfect english and then left. To this day I wonder if he was real or if it was the painkillers 🤣😅 To be fair to me, I was probably at N4 level at that time, but still learned a lot of conversational Japanese.

[@chinito77]

I live in Tokyo as well and I’ve heard of horror stories with police. Thankfully I’ve never been in an accident however a drunk guy once hit my car in a parking lot. I think about 10 cops showed up to take pictures. Luckily, the brought in a translator.

[@MrNgMichael]

@@veganryori I'm guessing the doctor might have studied in the US. I notice that a good number of doctors (here in Los Angeles at least) are bi/tri lingual and have studied abroad before.

[@DavidSheley]

I'm really sorry to hear about your accident! It sucks to think that you may not be able to play the Shamisen again. As always, thank you for sharing your life with us and giving us a glimpse into what life in Japan is like.

[@iman3724]

Oh Norm I’m so sorry you went through such an awful experience. Huge respect for your continued positivity it must take a lot of willpower to choose to look forward. Wishing you the very best with everything! 💕

[@AndrewJohnEgan]

Very sorry to hear of your accident! The impacts must be distressing for you. I hope you get the best possible outcome legally and your recovery goes well.

[@RobbC.]

Oh man, so glad you are okay and hope the elbow & pinky continue to give the Shamisen some love. I'm pretty sure your determination and enthusiasm will pull you through. All the best mate...

[@auntiebee]

Oh Norm that's terrible news. Glad you're still standing. Sending all my love to you and hope you heal stronger than ever.

[@jparkitrightthere]

Just ordered my shamisen plushie!! I look forward to all of your videos but somehow I missed this one. What a crazy experience 😢 Thank you so much for spreading positivity and creating awesome content. I can’t wait to visit Japan someday!! Til then, I have this channel!!! ❤☺️

[@TokyoLens]

Wow~ Thank you so much for all the kindness!

[@grayedhitherto9305]

I'm sorry that you had to go through that. Been following your channel for a while and a lot of us know how important shamisen and flying are to you. Hoping that this will all just be a minor setback and that you'll fully recover as soon as possible. Wishing you all the best and strength to get through the rehabilitation not to mention all the processing with the lawyers and insurance company which I expect will be very exhausting. You have our support! You got this norm.

[@kittenamy1]

Wow what a story, I’m glad you’re mostly ok. But my heart literally dropped and I felt nauseous when you said you might never be able to play again! Here’s hoping you do overcome the odds ❤

[@cleofealbano5639]

Norm you have been a pinnacle of optimism and light in everyone's life...it's heartbreaking to hear what happened to you, I hope you get full recovery and achieve all your dreams ❤️

[@derek.thomas0061]

👋 👋 hello

[@astrayhope]

I’m so sorry Norm. Hope the rest of your recovery goes well. Always wishing you the best.

[@Kiesmander]

My dude that is incredibly tragic. I REALLY hope that rehabilitation helps you, you've always been an icon to me of doing what you love and succeeding at it no matter the cost. As a fellow Canadian that hospital bill was YIKES.

[@RahatAzim998]

At least the driver was kind and stopped and got you help. Hope you get better soon.

[@TokyoLens]

Good guy~

[@zeebzeebo]

As someone who never had a 'dream' or something to chase, move to the other side of the world and work toward, i gotta say, Norm, my heart breaks for you. I honestly hope you don't have to abandon the shamisen and the flying. Best of luck to you, stranger.

[@BismuthKnight]

Really sorry to hear you got injured, but also very glad it wasn't worse, your videos have always made me smile, I wish you a speedy recovery! Someone may have already suggested it, but once you are fully healed you may be able to find someone to make a brace/guard that could fit around and protect your hand, or perhaps even help you design a different shape of plectrum that would allow your fingers to stay together or inside it, or even a cup shape attached to the palm of a glove to hold the base so your pinky can be in front with your ring finger. While you would have to learn to play differently, I'm sure someone out there is clever enough to work with you to make something to protect your hand! Thank you for all of the smiles and interesting things you've shared with us!

[@darkkun]

I'm so sorry you had to go through this. But so glad to hear that you're recovering and are back to flying! I hope that one day you'll be able to resume all your normal activities, including playing the shamisen. Sending all the good vibes your way.

[@TokyoCraftsman]

Man, you got lucky. If you have ANY injury you MUST get taken to a hospital by an AMBULANCE, if you don't you have almost ZERO chance to get anything from the insurance company, not that you have much of a chance to start with... Let me tell you with 32+ years of living here and several personal experiences in traffic accidents, you NEED that lawyer, and even with him, you will get screwed by the insurance company, they will try to blame you, and they will never let their guy, the driver be 100% to blame. A friend was in the right turn lane waiting for the right turn signal at an intersection, a guy rammed into his van from behind at speed (he had fallen asleep) and pushed him and the van into the intersection, where his van was hit by other cars. The insurance company tried to blame him for the damage to his van from the other cars and the damage to the other cars. They said he should have done more, what could he do in the right turn lane waiting for the light to turn green for him. Then they will try many delaying tactics, for example, they will have a court date and on that date, the insurance company guy that shows up will be a new guy who just got put on the case, they will tell the judge that the other insurance guy got sick/transferred/married, etc, and they will get a six-month extension. As you are non-Japanese, they will expect you to leave at some point and their job is to make you wait and wait, expecting you to leave. A friend got hit by a taxi in a crosswalk, the had lots of damage to his knee and shoulder, several surgeries later and he was better but never the same, after four years, yes FOUR years of the insurance company screwing him around he finally had enough and left the country, they never paid him one yen. Get a damn good lawyer and do what he says, I'm rooting for you! Stu. PS I'm really glad you were not seriously injured.

[@Niso_Sopas]

Such a serious topic this whole video and you still managed to make me laugh twice in the last minute of it. Love you, Norm. Hoping and praying all works out for you for the better after this heavy event.

[@deepanshunagpal469]

Sorry to hear about the terrible experience you went through Norm. Much love. Hope everything gets better soon.♥️

[@sweetarchangel6748]

Well damn, so glad that the accident didn’t do any more damage than what it did. And I’m also glad that the driver stopped and came back to help, some don’t sadly. Yeah, the adrenaline would have kicked in when the accident happened and then slowly worn off as time went on. And massive kudos to the ambulance guy, he’s probably sick of the cops being jerks too. With the shamisen, is there any way you can learn to play it with the opposite hand? Or are they designed to be played from one particular side? Also, I love how your shirt and hammock matched colour wise.

[@Blxglt]

@@verreal There's also the issue of people being left or right-handed and it being extremely difficult to learn to play the other way even if such an instrument existed (think guitarists and bass players). There's one example I can think of - the legendary metal guitarist Michael Angelo Batio who's ambidextrous and learned to play the other way some years into his career. In his case, you can still see how he's more comfortable playing the way he initially learned. I hope Norm's finger either completely recovers enough for him to play the shamisen or that he could find some kind of a solution (a custom-made bachi?) that would strain his pinky less or allow him to use his ring finger for support. With the latter option the picking technique would also have to change which is another issue.

[@mangodonut98]

Absolutely heartbreaking to hear about this. I can see why people say to avoid getting a license or driving in Japan. The red tape surrounding all facets, even in an arguably one-and-done case like this, makes even taking the risk unthinkable. Glad to hear you're okay and hope that recovery is swift and full!

[@rarelyfair]

I’m glad that you’re feeling better, but that’s absolutely devastating to hear how massively it affected you’re life. I am just coming off watching you pilot a plane more recently so hopefully that grief was mostly speculative. I really hope you’re able to play the shamisen again!

[@jhammylive]

Hoping you have a quick recovery!!! I can feel your passion for your instrument and I bleed with you over it bro. The things I’ve seen this channel do over the years, I have no doubt you will be back on your shamisen soon!! 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@NalakittyAMVs]

When you said you might not play shamisen again my heart SANK. I'm so sorry this happened to you, and I’m so impressed by your ability to maintain such a positive attitude. Best wishes, Norm ❤ We're all rooting for you in whatever choice you make for the future

[@arriannaneilson2626]

So glad you are ok!!! This happened to my friend when I lived in Matsumoto. We were out on our bikes and got stopped at a light. When it turned green, I went ahead but she had been taking a drink of water, so she was a little further behind me. I’ll never forget hearing her get hit by a car, turning and seeing her in the road. I didn’t speak very good Japanese, so luckily the man stopped to check on her and he called us an ambulance. She was ok, but she had one heck of a concussion and had to be in a neck brace for awhile. If you are ever hurt in Japan, ambulance rides are free! Don’t refuse help!

[@ootenba5910]

They are free?! I went with a cab when I broke my ankle in two places in Fukuoka 😭😭 #fml

[@arriannaneilson2626]

Yes, it’s free! If they give you any serious care in the ambulance, they of course will charge you for that. But if you need a ride to the ER, it’s free. 👍🏻

[@budi1eldo]

So sorry to hear you had/have to go through this, already tears in my eyes, I really hope for your full recovery and that you can continue playing the shamisen and your pilot training. Wish you all the best, take care and please reach out to get help from friends, family, professionals,…I‘m rooting for you!

[@punchpineapple]

I'm so sorry for your injuries and difficulties ahead. I hope you're able to recover fully.

[@derek.thomas0061]

Hello 👋 👋

[@onakutv]

Hey Norm! Hope your recovery is going well! Just wanna let you know that you're one of my biggest inspirations and that your videos helps me a lot when I struggle with my depression. I really hope everything will workout for you!

[@DanOnTheGo1]

OMG! Norm. I know we have seen you since this happened, but I really hope you are healing well and man. Sorry you had to go through this.

[@TokyoLens]

Thanks so much

[@DanOnTheGo1]

@@TokyoLens Of course man, Please stay safe. Also Norm, keep hope for the shamisen. MY buddy here in Ottawa broke his neck paying rugby and the hospital sent him home without even a xray. that night he stopped being able to even lift a dinner plate (this is BIG muscle guy, we bench 300+lbs easily and he couldn't lift a plate). He then returned to the ER and got real care this time at a different hospital. The says he may be paralyzed on his left side, but the body can heal! in about 6 months we started going back to the gym and a year after that back to full strength. Keep hope buddy. Keep hope.

[@makesomethinggood4896]

What a heartbreaking turn of events. I wish you the absolute best Norm, and I hope you heal cleanly and completely! Bones do heal stronger than before, so stay hopeful my man!

[@piposchannel946]

Norm, terribly sorry to hear what happened. I can't provide any words of reassurance regarding all of the insane changes that it has brought. I'm not alone when I say that we will be cheering you on as you recover both physically and mentally from this. Thanks for making this informative video, hopefully, no one will have to go through this as you did.

[@sunshinegalkw9675]

Omg! Norm! Glad you’re getting better! Crazy story , hope you will be able to play your instrument in the future!!

[@TokyoLens]

Me tooooo

[@veronicamcgovern2775]

What a scary turn of events on a routine ride home! Wishing you all the best for your continued recovery, Norm, and don't lose hope for your shamisen playing ❤️

[@chaosof99]

I know I am very late here, but this is heartbreaking. I hope you have a full recovery and can continue your passion with the Shamisen.

[@shendruew]

One of my favourite youtubers on here, love your videos. Hope your injuries heal up fully in time. I reckon you will have a lot of positive energy heading your way from the vast majority of subscribers here. You'll be back playing the shamisen again in good time. 👍

[@saphirsteph]

Gosh Norm I’m so sorry to hear about your accident, and the consequences of it. That’s tough! Fortunately you’re alive, and I’m sure you’ll be able to adapt to life after that, whatever it may bring. Sending you lots of love!

[@indysaur]

Oh my gosh Norm, I'm glad you're okay! I hope you are able to regain the strength and range of motion needed to peruse your pilot's license and continue with your shamisen!

[@kaizeru2468]

Hope you have a swift recovery. I know things wont always be smooth, but stay strong and positive with the support of the community, just like how you inspire us too. Thank you for sharing your experience, and very sincerely hope that you will still be able to do what you love after your recovery.

[@KaylaL2019]

I am so sorry that happened Norm. I will be praying for complete healing and that you will be able to continue following both of your dreams! I am glad that you are okay and are continuing to heal. :)

[@shinakastar]

Jeez, what an awful experience you went through! I'm so sorry and I really hope recovery goes quickly and as smoothly as possible (so glad you're getting your range of motion back in your hand too)!

[@melissawaite6018]

Oh Norm! How devastating! I’m so sorry you’re going through such a terrible injury. Sending healing vibes to you on the wind.

[@marissa4603]

I'm really sorry to hear about your injuries 🥺 I hope you heal up well and quickly!💗

[@derek.thomas0061]

👋 👋 hello

[@victxoria]

finally just ordered myself one of your shamisen plushies, it’ll be here in a month && I’m so excited! I hope your recovery is swift & you feel even better than before once you’ve healed! you’ll be able to play again one day, I feel it in my bones. so much love to you, norm! have the best day today && everyday! 🖤

[@derek.thomas0061]

Hello 👋 👋

[@Cami_2006.]

I’m so sorry you’re going through this Norm, glad to hear you’re recovering though! I heard Japanese doctors tend to be a bit fatalistic so I’m hoping what they had to say about your finger is just that and you make a full recovery! Rooting for you ❤

[@hellshire11]

What an unfortunate event man. Hope your doing fine, physically and emotionally. Stay strong! Life goes on!

[@emhage]

My heart ached a bit when you mentioned how this may well affect your shamisen playing & budding piloting dreams permanently. I've always admired your go-getter attitude when it comes to exploration of Japan, bettering your crafts, chasing new goals. However, you being alive right now and on the mend, still here talking to us, means so, so much (from a stranger to another). I'm very glad you're all right. Please take care and be well; there is so much more to do and happiness to find!

[@haileecreger696]

I’m glad you are doing better now and that you weren’t hurt more seriously. But it really does suck all the things the injury could cost you as far as thing you love to do and are passionate about. I hope you heal well and can continue shamisen.

[@tea-and-biscuits]

You always bring such a great energy and passion to all your videos! Really hope you heal fully and can pursue your passions of shamisen and flying!

[@TokyoLens]

Thanks so much~

[@jayd33zzz]

Sorry this happened to you, Norm. Glad you took the time to share even though you must have a lot on your plate to worry about. Hoping for the best and for a speedy recovery physically, mentally and emotionally ❤

[@ScottyKushin]

As a Canadian, and as a daily electric scooter commuter who has also gotten hit by a car, but luckily sustained minor injuries I definitely understand your plight. I hope you heal up and suffer no long term suffering!

[@9sheri9]

Faced with such an overwhelming possibility of potential loss, your path forward & outlook will certainly be put to the test. Your personal character seems to be stronger than any life hurdle & I have no doubt you'll head into the direction that you're supposed to go. Stay strong, stay motivated, let your body heal. Very happy you could walk away from this accident as it really could've been so much worse. Sending hugs & good vibes your way!✌️💕

[@chrissieclips3209]

Holy crap Norm! Sounds like you escaped with relatively minor injuries all things considered. Unfortunately it seems that even minor injuries can have life changing consequences! I truly hope that you continue to heal and that the worst case scenarios don’t happen. Stay positive and you can be sure that your viewers are wishing the best for you!

[@SecretSquirrelFun]

My thoughts exactly ❤

[@refuze4k]

Love this story times, sad about the actual story. Take much care Norm! I was also in a little accident a few months before my move to Japan. It was a diving accident and the short story is that I almost snapped my neck. It could have gone much worse but I had to stay at home for 3 months and the pain was insane. I was also getting scans on my body and I do feel now that my neck has way less movement possible. Looking down actually hurts my nack and it feels like a giant strain. Again sorry I haven't been able to watch your videos lately, I'm gonna binge watch the rest I missed. It was very fun seeing your studio!

[@anerolllanes3737]

Wow Norm, glad to hear you are okay. We'll pray for a speedy recovery 🙏🏻. Sending you lots of love and support

[@cinematicjapan]

So sorry to hear this man. Good on you for keeping your head up! Praying the settlement goes through with the best result possible. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@knittyglitchy2521]

i remember my car accident a couple year ago. intersections and highways still make me scared to drive on. i will never have full range of motion in my hip again. its normal yet unfortunate the fear you feel afterwards. i wish you well

[@fritzkuhne2055]

i often wonder why i am even still alive with all the near death experiences i had riding my bike. motor vehicles and bicycles do not belong in the same space, its a recepy for disaster. the only relaxed riding i do is on dedicated bike lanes

[@christsang5591]

This is crazy! Can't imagine how rough it is knowing you might not be able to do something you love and have dedicated so much life to :( don't give up hope and may your recovery continue to go well! also shout out to the ambulance people, saving lives in multiple ways XD

[@Voodooglyn]

I'm so glad that you were not really seriously hurt and that you are still here with us as your videos give me great comfort as my girlfriend lives in Sapporo and we havent seen each since 2020 and your videos help feel that im in japan. hope you heal well and please rest up when you can.

[@JC-sj7mv]

I’m so sorry to hear about your accident and the way the police officers treated you while clearly the victim in this situation. I know what it’s like to lose something you love doing due to injury/Illness, so I hope you have a full recovery and win the settlement so you can have some peace of mind.

[@vuaorin]

I'm glad you were able to recover well from this well and still be able to make videos

[@SmilingQuokka]

So sorry to hear this happened to you, Norm! I hope you will heal and your hand will be as strong as ever, and you'll be able to go on and fulfill your dreams. Also, we have a similar health care system in Australia to that in Canada. So the concept of paying for all treatments upfront on the day of your accident, then claiming back the costs is mind-blowing to me!

[@haru6521]

I’m sorry to hear that, hoping everything turns out alright!

[@ElvenBlossom]

Oh wow, I’m so glad you are ok! I hope everything works out well for you with the insurance and you get decent compensation. 🤗

[@kajoleagle]

I am so sorry to hear about your road accident. Especially with the injuries you have received ending your dreams. I empathise with you as I was hit by a car when I was a teen and that ended a lot of dreams for me. I am just glad that you are recovering well and that your injuries were not worse

[@pam_momoko]

Wow, what a roller coaster ride of an experience. A volunteer at my last job got hit by a car on his scooter and the driver just kept going. I'm so sorry this happened to you, but glad that you're on the mend. I hope that the insurance investigation goes smoothly on your end. Please take care of yourself!

[@florencegabriel6683]

I'm so sorry that you have gone through such a horrendous accident. It could have been worse but this is worse for you as you have so much that you are going through. Know that we are all here for you. Stay strong and keep moving forward. Remember that there is always something positive that comes out of any bad situation.

[@nbmarshall1]

What a scary experience! I'm glad you are getting better. The tour through the experience and different organizations you touched during it was fascinating. I am terribly sorry to hear about your finger and what it means for shamisen playing. I'm glad to see (in a future video) that you have made it back to flying. Take care!

[@melissanikole3753]

Glad you are okay Norm ! Love watching your videos from New Zealand

[@kellimshaver]

Oh, Norm. I'm so sorry to hear this. The idea of losing the two things you've worked so hard for and care so much about is awful. You don't deserve this. Please take care of yourself and don't forget about your mental health, either. This is a lot to deal with.

[@lindac1142]

I am so sorry to hear what’s happened. Hopefully you will recover fully enough so that your goal of becoming a pilot is fulfilled.

[@ThorPalsson]

Really sorry to hear about the shamisen and pilot lessons. Hopefully it is only temporary, you deserve a full recovery so you can keep following your dreams.

[@Haladmer]

Best wishes to you, both in a speedy and safe recovery, and in dealing with all of the "red-tape" you're now facing. There is no end to the frustration of having to deal with the NPA as a non-native resident (even worse as a tourist/visitor) when something like this comes up. Glad you were able to mostly keep calm under the aggressive "questioning", and huge respect to the medical responders who stepped in to help protect you (while also frustrating the inspector)

[@ashtrees8969]

I was literally just wondering how you were doing when this video popped up! Glad to see you’re safe, and I hope someday you’ll be able to play again ;.; it hurt my heart hearing you say you might not be able to play as someone who plays an instrument- wishing you all the best!! 💕💕💕

[@TokyoLens]

Thanks so much

[@AndreaFrancoise]

It's amazing how you are able to still be so optimistic in this video despite it being such a harrowing incident

[@gwynnmccallan8856]

Norm really has the best attitude of anyone I've seen on You Tube (or IRL for that matter). Truly an amazing and inspirational guy.

[@SemoreVanes]

So glad to hear that you survived and I hope that you have FULL recovery so you can fly and play the Shamisen - but not at the same time! Oh yeah, I have one pf those plushies and it is so much nicer than in the videos.

[@YokaiPrez]

I’m glad you’re getting better! Hopefully you’ll be making a full recovery soon!

[@LaxativePayne]

So glad you're okay, no doubt it's scary for the future of your passions to be uncertain, but I think you'll always make the most of things.

[@poetryletter]

I’m so heartbroken Norm. Hope you’ll recover as soon as possible

[@Xuenii0126]

So sorry to hear this norm,glad you're back!

[@leanne2558]

Glad you are ok and continuing to heal. Wishing you all the best with your rehab and hoping the worst case scenario doesnt happen and you can continue pursuing all of your dreams. Its never easy to have to close the door and give up on a dream because of something you can't control. I've been down that road, and hope you won't have to.

[@derek.thomas0061]

Hello 👋 👋