At the age of 4, Qian’s life was forever changed by a car accident that left her without legs. Her family, struggling with financial difficulties, couldn’t afford artificial limbs or the expensive rehabilitation needed for her recovery.

Faced with these challenges, her grandfather ingeniously cut a basketball in half to create a makeshift seat for her lower body. Using old door handles as support, Qian learned to move around, relying on her remarkable determination and resilience.

The basketball became a symbol of her perseverance, helping her navigate life without legs. Despite their modest means, Qian’s family remained supportive, and their community rallied around her. Donations poured in, allowing her to travel to Beijing and receive her first prosthetics. These contributions also enabled her to complete her primary education.

However, when it came time to pursue further education, the family found themselves unable to afford the costs. Instead of succumbing to despair, Qian returned home with a renewed sense of purpose. She discovered a newly formed group in her province that trained people with disabilities in swimming. This opportunity became a turning point in her life.

Qian refused to be a burden to her parents or let her circumstances define her. She embraced every chance life offered, channeling her determination into swimming. In 2014, her hard work paid off when she won the 100-meter swim at the Yunnan Paralympics.

Her victory was a testament to her unyielding spirit and the belief that life, despite its challenges, still held immense value.

Qian’s story is a powerful reminder of how perseverance, creativity, and community support can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Despite the odds, she transformed her circumstances into a story of triumph and inspiration.