A Quan, a cobbler in Guangdong Province in the Chinese mainland, has spent years making shoes at a roadside stall—walking on his hands since he lost his legs in a car accident at age six.
Despite the severe physical trauma, A Quan found inspiration in Helen Keller’s book “Three Days to See,” which he discovered through a friend’s recommendation. “Make the most of every sense you have,” he says. “Each one is a gift.” This message drives the engaging vlogs he shares online, giving viewers a window into his daily routines and unwavering love for life.
In a casual vlog earlier this year, A Quan mentioned his dream of delivering a talk at Harvard. The moment resonated with his audience, and the clip caught the attention of Xu Liang, president of the Harvard Alumni Association in Beijing. Last month, A Quan stepped onto the Alumni Association’s stage, sharing his story of resilience and hope with fellow alumni.
“What keeps us going is not our legs, but the love for life within us,” A Quan told the audience. His words struck a chord, reminding everyone that true strength comes from within.
A Quan’s journey from a modest street stall to an international platform highlights the power of human spirit. In a world where digital connections can turn dreams into reality, his story stands as a testament to perseverance and the impact of community support.
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A cobbler's journey: From street stall to Harvard alumni talk
cgtn.com
