Internet gives armless young man a pair of invisible wings

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Chen Zifang, a young man living in Badong County in central China’s Hubei Province, was born with no arms. Simple daily activities for ordinary people are a big challenge for him. But he was determined not to be defeated and gradually learned daily skills one by one: holding chopsticks, washing clothes, cooking and even farming.

Chen lives with his mom in the village. /CGTN Photo

Not long ago, he managed to learn how to use a computer by typing with his toes and opened an online specialty store that helps his fellow villagers sell their handmade specialties and organic food to customers nationwide.

Chen is always ready to learn new things and holds our camera trying to take a photo./CGTN Photo

His online shop now has a monthly revenue of more than 100,000 yuan (about 15,790 US dollars), a big boost to lifting fellow villagers out of poverty.

Chen now spends most of his time taking care of his online shop. He says the number one principle of running his shop is “being trustworthy,” and every package must be checked by him in person. As more and more orders spring up online, he plans to expand his business and hire others with disabilities like him.

Working on his online specialty store. /CGTN Photo

Chen has become famous in his town for his strong will and inspiring story. He is sometimes invited by community organizers to share his stories and how he has overcome so many difficulties to realize his dream. He says there is no easy way out, the only secret: never give up.

Chen Zifang and the CGTN crew. Everyone who interacts with him can feel his uplifting spirit. /CGTN Photo