How to deal with an inconsiderate Japanese hospital roommate

4 Answers

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  Tomuu

  on Apr 15

  I have no direct experience with such a case but it seems to me that you need to create the best possible environment in which your daughter can get well. So, rather than have to feel uncomfortable, I would say something to the head of the ward. Also this would seem to be the normal, Japanese way, too. I mean people here tend not to confront problem-makers head on, instead they go to the manager, landlord etc and have them sort it out, so speaking to the head of the ward is probably what others do. If the head of the ward is doing their job, they should at least listen to you and try to understand.

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  genkidesu

  on Apr 16

  I'd 100% say something. I have young children myself and that's absolutely not the kind of environment I'd want them (or me) to be dealing with. I think sometimes the foreigner-card can help when you raise issues - whether it's because people actually care or they just don't want to deal with us for longer than is necessary, I've often found that when I raise issues something gets done. Hopefully they can move you (or the inconsiderate room-mate) to another room. I hope your little one gets better fast!

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  Oldsoul

  on Apr 16

  Thanks Tomui and Genkidesu! Truly appreciate the inputs. I have prepared a formal letter in both English and Japanese (with the help of a friend) and shall hand it over to the Ward Head and see how it goes. My daughter is just almost 3 months old and have been diagnosed with a very rare disease that only 1-2 people get affected out of 1M population. It is curable but she has to undergo stem cell transplant. That's why my priority is for her to have a conducive and positive environment.

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  Jackson

  on Apr 19

  In japan, complaining upward and indirectly is usually the easiest way to go, so talk about it with the staff there. They are responsible of the environment as well as understanding you and your needs, so I think they will try hard with their English to talk to you about it.

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