Shining a Light: How Zhang Helps Kids with Autism in China 🌟
Have you ever met someone who makes a big difference in other people’s lives? Let me tell you about Zhang, a remarkable woman from Handan, a city in north China’s Hebei Province. Zhang is a mother who turned a challenge into a mission to help others!
A Personal Journey
In 2008, Zhang’s life changed when her daughter was diagnosed with autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects how people communicate and interact with others. At first, Zhang felt worried and unsure about the future. But instead of giving up, she decided to learn more and find ways to help her daughter and others like her.
Building Special Schools 🏫
Zhang started a special school for children with autism. She wanted to create a place where kids could learn, grow, and feel accepted. To make this happen, she sold her house, borrowed money, and worked very hard. Her efforts paid off when she saw the children making progress, like saying their first words or learning new skills!
Helping More Families
As time went on, Zhang opened more centers that offer rehabilitation, day care, job training, and even employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Now, over 100 individuals learn and work at her centers! She’s not just helping the kids but also giving their families support and hope.
Stories of Hope
Many families have found new possibilities at Zhang’s centers. For example, Dong Ying (not her real name) searched for years to find help for her son. When they joined Zhang’s center, her son became a teaching assistant and is thriving!
Another mother, Wang, saw her son Haohao blossom at the center. He loves making bead crafts and can even calculate dates on the lunar calendar! These successes show how important Zhang’s work is.
Changing Attitudes 🤝
Over the years, people are becoming more understanding of autism in China. Small acts of kindness, like a police officer helping Haohao during a difficult moment, show that society is becoming more accepting.
A Bright Future 🌈
Zhang’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Her Starlight Special Education School received a national award, and she continues to hope for more support and opportunities for people with autism. She believes this is her life’s mission, and she inspires others to make a difference too.
China’s Support for Autism
Autism affects many people around the world. In China, more than 13 million people have autism. The government is increasing support by providing more funding for education and training. This helps schools like Zhang’s continue their important work.
Reference(s):
How a Chinese school founder empowers individuals with autism
cgtn.com
