“She’s 21!”: How does “the girl in the basketball” look today?
Qian Hongyan, a young girl, serves as a powerful inspiration to many, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and relentless pursuit of goals. Her remarkable journey is especially impactful for individuals with disabilities.
Qian’s extraordinary story began when she was merely four years old, enduring a devastating car accident that resulted in the loss of both her legs. Unfortunately, her family lacked the financial means to acquire prosthetic limbs, forcing them to adapt to a new way of life.
Initially, Qian’s parents carried her in their arms. However, her grandfather ingeniously devised a unique contraption to aid her mobility. He repurposed a basketball, fashioning it to accommodate Qian while providing her with sticks to push off with her hands.
The family captured a video of the young girl navigating her surroundings in this unconventional manner, and it swiftly became an internet sensation. Consequently, Qian Hongyan gained global recognition as “the girl on the basketball.”
Witnessing Qian’s remarkable determination, as she independently made her way to school with her improvised device, left everyone in awe. Although the journey took her significantly longer—approximately an hour, compared to the usual seven minutes—her unwavering willpower shone through.
At the age of eight, with the assistance of the government, Qian received prosthetic limbs, marking a significant milestone as she took her first steps.
Moreover, this breakthrough enabled her to pursue her passion for swimming, which had always been a cherished dream. Equipped with her prostheses, Qian wholeheartedly dedicated herself to honing her swimming skills. For an extended period, she yearned to participate in the Paralympic Games but faced numerous obstacles. However, in 2016, her dreams finally materialized.
Today, she stands as a triumphant champion swimmer, adorned with numerous medals, and renowned worldwide. Qian Hongyan serves as a genuine role model for all those teetering on the brink of giving up. Her indomitable spirit and victorious mindset resonate, offering reassurance that if she possesses the strength to thrive and conquer, so can anyone else.