Enabling Change disabled
What kind of work is Handicap International doing in China? We have six community-based rehabilitation centers: two in Guangxi, one in Sichuan and three in Tibet. These use existing networks to provide support and facilities to disabled people. Handicap International is known for its work in Chengdu. Can you tell us about that? The day after the earthquake we were at the two hospitals that received the majority of victims. We’re starting a second-phase of the project where we’ll work with local authorities on longer-term treatment. What do you find rewarding about your work?s Though there is a lot of development in China there is still a need to improve the well-being of people in rural areas. What I like is the feeling here that we can make a difference. So what are the challenges facing disabled people in China? The Chinese government has done a lot for the inclusion of disabled people in the last 20 years. But in rural areas, they still think disabled people are less capable and then don’t encourage them to be autonomous. Do you think the Paralympics will help the perception of disabled people in China? My hope is that seeing these disabled people perform at a high level will encourage others to be self-reliant and autonomous. Are you going? Oh yes. We’re going to the Opening Ceremony and will be taking some of our beneficiaries from Guangxi, mostly children and their families.

DETAILS

To accompany disabled children to the Paralympics contact Sabrina at public@handicap-int.org.cn