Strength in the face of disability

Cao Leijun participates in a marathon. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

Though wheelchair-bound, Cao Leijun, a resident of Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has been living a brilliant and fulfilling life.

In 1995, Cao, then 30 years old, was partially paralyzed in a car accident and confined to a wheelchair. The once happy family thrust into hardship when Cao's wife had to quit her job to take care of him and their daughter, who was only four years old at that time.

After learning about Cao's situation, local authorities and residents helped Cao and his family and encouraged Cao to take up woodcarving.

After a few years of practice, Cao's woodcarving products began to attract many customers, such as temples, corporations and independently-run businesses, helping to alleviate the financial burden on his family.

To inspire others who suffer from disabilities, Cao established groups on QQ and WeChat, through which he shares his experiences and nursing tips. More and more disabled people are joining.

The group uploads short videos about their lives on the Douyin short-video platform to encourage others like them.

"We hope we can walk together toward a wonderful future," said Cao in one of his videos.

Cao is also a marathon enthusiast and has participated in marathons in many places, including Fenghua and Beilun districts in Ningbo, Hengdian, and Shaoxing.

"The spirit of the marathon forces us to challenge ourselves and keep fighting," said Cao.

"We also make videos of our marathon races, so that disabled people can learn to work hard to achieve what is beyond the reach of normal people. We hope they can rejoin society and rebuild their lives."