Zhou Yi: willing to be a "snaillike" liaison officer for the disabled

As a grown up experiencing cold words and indifferent looks from other people, Zhou Yi was unhappy. When she saw children running, she would cry a lot; when watching singing and dancing on TV, she would shout. At times like these, her mother always hugs her tightly, soothing her anger. She loves to be told stories by her mother. The stories always help her temporarily forget cold words from others, helping her become happy. The Story of A Snail was one of her favorite stories during her childhood. She still remembers vivid descriptions from the story, as told by her mother. Her mother told her that as long as there were stars in the sky, the snail would not give up its dreams. She always remembered the words, living with no choice but to be like the snail. Her level-4 physical disability made her sweat heavily, even from a simple squat. From September 2012 to January 2015, she studied at at Xiamen RTVU’s social work junior college programme. After graduating, she saw a recruitment ad on the Municipal Disabled Persons' Federation’s website and learned they were seeking a liaison officer for the disabled in the community. When she saw the news, she grew excited, knowing it was a chance for her to get close to her dream.

In February 2012, she was assigned to Huli Street, Jinding Community, and was responsible for daily assignments with the disabled persons' federation in Jinding and Xingang communities. In Jinding, a parent whose child suffered from autism called to consult on issues concerning procedures and policies related to applying for a disability card. At first, she thought it was just a regular consultation. After she told him the procedures, she hung up and did not think more about it. But later, the father called several times, though holding something back each time. Thanks to her patience, the father finally shared his concerns. He said that he would like to apply for a disability card for the child, but he was afraid that his child would be labeled a disabled person, casting a stigma on him for the rest of his life. After listening to his words, she softly explained that applying for a disability card would actually make the child's future more convenient. It would also serve as an important certificate for the child to enjoy preferential government policies! For example, after becoming school-aged, he could apply for subsidies set aside for disabled students, as well as rehabilitation assistance and other benefits. A few days later, the father came to the community’s office and applied for his son’s disability card. There are many similar stories. Upon each accomplishment, she feels the joy of success.

By Jianghe, Chinese TV News