Xiao Fang

Eleos Project Manager

When I first encountered Xiaofang, she resembled a frightened fawn, her gaze flitting about nervously. It soon became clear that her anxiety stemmed from a deep-seated fear of being a burden; she worried that her father and grandmother might "send her away" due to the stress of her condition. Such a grave thought for someone so young.

As I learned more about her, I discovered that Xiaofang was afflicted with a rare congenital condition where she feels no pain. Both of her legs were swollen and deformed to varying degrees, and her hands were underdeveloped and swollen. 

Her father tirelessly searched for doctors and treatments, but unfortunately, there was no place that could alleviate Xiaofang's suffering.

Despite the dim prospects for treatment, Xiaofang has managed to retain the warmth of her spirit. She radiates kindness, illuminating the lives of those around her with her gentle heart.

 Xiao Fang Sharing her grapes with volunteers from their own vineyard

In her family, she takes on the role of the "little chef." Grandma often praises her for her quick and skillful cooking. Though her hands may not be perfect, they are filled with love and nurture.

Xiaofang also cherishes the dreams of any little girl. She adores floral dresses, enjoys styling her hair into playful braids, and her eyes gleam with a desire for beauty.

Her smile is pure and brilliant, capable of brightening even the darkest moments in life.

She looked forward to the trip to Beijing for medical testing. We sponsored all medical expenses during Xiaofang's visit to Beijing. We are grateful to the kind people who sponsored some expenses (such as food and accommodation) during this period. We hope that the doctor can give a professional diagnosis and nursing advice, which may help Xiaofang's subsequent treatment. Before departure, she contacted us every day and told us how she looked forward to this trip. Our team decided early on: no matter what the result is, we will take them on a tour of Beijing. Children's hearts are easily closed under the shadow of illness for a long time, and parents also need to divert their attention and discover happiness beyond illness.

The field trip to the Wild Life Park in Beiing 

We arrived at the hospital bright and early on the 13^th of November 2024. The doctor took the time to inquire about Xiaofang's medical history as well as the family's health background. After carefully assessing her current symptoms, he ordered a comprehensive set of tests, including genetic testing. He also suggested that she be admitted to the hospital for more in-depth examinations to finalize her diagnosis.

The following day, along with a series of examinations, Xiaofang was scheduled to see an orthopedic specialist. The doctor diagnosed her with a dislocated and hypertrophied left knee joint, suggesting that she might be a candidate for joint replacement when she reaches around 17 years of age.

In this latest photo, Xiaofang is in the midst of a four-hour EEG monitoring session, and she needed to sleep in order for the tests to be properly conducted.

Xiaofang has begun a new chapter in her life. While fate may not always seem just, she carries a spark of light in her eyes and an abundance of love in her heart. We are committed to being there for her, illuminating the path ahead. Our hope is that this resilient and compassionate young girl will be able to find hope and beauty as she looks toward the future.

Even if the weight of burdens causes branches to bend, there will always come a time for blossoms to emerge. Those resilient branches quietly draw in nutrients, patiently awaiting the moment when the spring breeze arrives, ready to showcase their own unique beauty.

Similarly, individuals facing challenges may feel overwhelmed by life's hardships, yet if there is light in their hearts, they will inevitably discover a path toward hope. 

When the flowers finally bloom, it serves as a reward for all the perseverance and patience endured. 

Always remember, life holds turning points, bringing new opportunities for growth and renewal.

Eleos Update

Each visit ignites a stronger urge to contribute to the well-being of these children, yet it also heightens our understanding that true assistance goes beyond mere handouts. We grapple with the challenge of providing hope while ensuring we don't hinder their personal development. In this edition, we explore this complex issue together by reflecting on the experiences of various children, focusing on the themes of hope and growth.

 

During the holiday, Xiaolin experienced another epileptic seizure. As it began, she sensed it coming, expressing to her mother that she felt dizzy and urged her to hurry. Thankfully, the episode was brief, and she recovered quickly, though it left her mother feeling quite anxious.

Nowadays, Xiaolin tends to avoid going out. She often remains at home, lacking friends to spend time with. We’re concerned that this lifestyle might weaken her immune system and make her more susceptible to colds.

Hope lies in the belief that her illness will not overshadow her future. 

Growth is the resilience she shows in overcoming each seizure. 

Hope is the promise that medication can alleviate the discomfort of her episodes. 

Growth is about opening her heart, allowing light and warmth to enter her life.

During the holiday, Xiao Su accidentally cut his hand with a sickle while helping his family by cutting grass. Unfortunately, he missed the optimal time for suturing the wound, which led to a more serious injury.

At dinner, Xiao Su found it difficult to pick up his food with his injured hand. The staff encouraged him to ask his friends for help. Xiao Shuo and Xiao Hao quickly stepped in, eager to assist Xiao Su in eating his meal.

 

Hope is knowing that sharing household chores is a commendable responsibility. 

Growth is understanding that sometimes, one must find strength to navigate life's challenges. 

Hope is the warmth of support from friends, as comforting as a sweet fragrance.

Growth is embracing the belief in love, a steadfast principle that remains in our hearts.

Yilin has always struggled to find motivation in his studies and expressed uncertainty about his future after graduating from junior high school. However, during a recent dinner, a classmate shared some encouraging news: Yilin had recently received praise from his teacher. When we brought this up, Yilin confidently confirmed it, mentioning that he had been recognized in front of the entire class for scoring 28 points in history—just two points shy of passing (the full score being 50 and the passing score 30). This moment reminded us that every child yearns to be seen and appreciated.

Hope is the understanding that grades do not define your life.

Growth is about embracing your responsibilities. 

Hope is knowing that every effort deserves recognition.

Growth is the realization that with hard work, you can achieve even greater things.

After more than a year of rehabilitation, Ruiying has made a remarkable recovery and returned to school. What she has been through is unimaginable for children her age. Ruiying is a resilient young lady who tackles challenges independently. Last year, she traveled alone to Hohhot for medical treatment, spending several months there and navigating hospital visits by herself. She also managed to gather the necessary information for her school after classes resumed. She shared that her father works in Xuejiawan. After all she has endured, Ruiying is becoming increasingly mature.

Hope is the belief that illness and darkness cannot hold you back. 

Growth is finding strength in silence and using courage to help guide you. 

Hope is knowing that the future lies beneath your feet, with support behind you. 

Growth is the quiet strength that develops in solitude.

To conclude, we’d like to share a quote: "Empower the person you want to help until the day they no longer need you and can confidently navigate their own life." The goal of "helpers" is to enable those they assist to cultivate their own strength, so they can not only support themselves but also uplift those around them. This is our mission as well.