Special gala for children with autism held in Beijing

World
Europe

A gala featuring children with autism brought the disorder to the forefront in Beijing on Thursday.

Official estimates show that millions of children in China have autism, which can lead to reduced emotional responses and behavioral problems. But some also have a propensity for painting and music, so many of them have turned to art for help.

Diagnosed with autism at three, Kang Rui, now 18, lived his dream on stage at the gala, performing his favorite Peking Opera piece.

People‍ with autism performing on the stage /Photo source: Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center

He introduced himself: "I can perform Peking Opera and Yuju Opera. I'm also learning clarinet and saxophone. Playing music makes me happy. And I enjoy painting and baking as well."

Kids with autism are often called “children of the stars,” as they seem to be living on their own planets, far far away. With the increasing awareness of autism in China, more efforts are being made to help autistic children and their families.

Zhang Junrun, organizer of the event and founder of the Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center, is doing her part. She wants life to be as normal as possible for children with this condition.

The special gala for children with autism /Photo source: Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center

Zhang said: “I discovered that when the children are painting, they enjoyed their time very much, they concentrated and their emotions became calm and peaceful. And music also helps. They say art has no boundaries. Maybe that’s why it’s such an effective treatment for autism, as it builds a bridge to the world as we know it."

The gala also consisted of an awards ceremony, where autistic children from all over the country can submit their paintings and get prizes. In the past few years, Golden Wings has worked with the government and businesses to sell calendars, post cards and even iPad covers created by autistic children.

People with autism performing on the stage /Photo source: Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center

Zhang Yanling, chairman of the Aixin Life Insurance Co,. Ltd, who runs a charity organization for Golden Wings, revealed: "Performing on stage and receiving a prize here give the children a great sense of accomplishment. It also helps to raise the morale for the family. Because the children get actual money for the award, charity can involve more than just begging for sympathy – it can also be a fair trade of art and love.”

Many celebrities are also devoted to the cause. Zilin Zhang is the first Chinese Miss World. She's been helping Golden Wings from the very beginning, using her fame to make a difference.

Zilin Zhang at the gala /Photo source: Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center

Zhang said: "We've come a long way, and I'm grateful to be part of the program from the very beginning and get to know all these kids with great talent. I'm a mother now and I feel that I can better relate to these children with autism. In fact, I'm still keeping touch with the children from our first encounter. When they draw something new or learn a new song, they would show me. And I'm so proud of them."

For all the help that they get, the big question for these kids is who takes care of them when they grow up.

The special gala for children with autism /Photo source: Golden Wings Rehabilitation Center

Zhang said it takes all of society to answer to that. "After he graduates from middle school, where will he go? There isn’t an appropriate place for them right now in our country. When he becomes an adult, where will he get a job and earn a living? I hope our government and all of society will provide more help and support for children with autism, so that they can live with dignity."