Every April, the world unites to raise awareness about autism, a complex neurodevelopmental condition. In Handan, a city in the Chinese mainland’s Hebei Province, one woman’s dedication is transforming the lives of individuals with autism and their families.
A Mother’s Journey
In 2008, life took an unexpected turn for Zhang Chengjing when her first child was diagnosed with autism. At the time, Zhang knew little about the condition and felt overwhelmed by uncertainty. “The pressure was immense. I didn’t know how to care for my child’s future and felt utterly helpless,” she recalled.
Working as an executive at a leading garment company, Zhang made the courageous decision to change her life’s path. She founded a special education school to provide early intervention for children with autism. To fund this endeavor, she sold her house, took out loans, and sought support from compassionate donors.
“Despite the hardships, seeing the children make progress—uttering their first words or learning to pour a glass of water—made every effort worthwhile,” Zhang shared.
Building a Supportive Community
As the children grew older, Zhang expanded her mission. She established multiple institutions offering rehabilitation, day care, vocational training, and employment opportunities. Today, over 100 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities learn and work in her centers, providing much-needed support for both the individuals and their families.
“Looking back, I believe fate gave me this opportunity to help autistic children and families. Perhaps this is my life’s mission,” Zhang reflected.
Stories of Hope
Dong Ying (a pseudonym) is one of the many parents who found hope through Zhang’s centers. After years of searching for support for her 29-year-old son, she finally found a place where he could thrive. “It exceeded my expectations,” she said. Her son now works as a teaching assistant, a role that brings him fulfillment.
“He longs to work and be independent, but society offers too few opportunities for people like him,” Dong said. “But things are looking good as people like Zhang are exploring possibilities.”
Another mother, known by her surname Wang, has seen her 26-year-old son Haohao flourish in Zhang’s center. “Give him a solar calendar date, and he’ll tell you the day of the week and the corresponding lunar date,” Wang smiled. “I think his experience in the center helps him integrate into society.”
Advocating for Inclusivity
Zhang’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. This March, her Starlight Special Education School received a national award from the All-China Women’s Federation. She credits the success to her dedicated team of teachers, who are nurturing the children’s growth and giving families hope.
Despite progress, challenges remain. Another parent, Pei Shuli, hopes for more personalized support for her 16-year-old son, Kefei. “My son loves singing, which needs personalized intervention, but we don’t have a local institution to develop his interest,” she said.
A Growing Awareness
Over the past two decades, societal understanding and acceptance of autism have increased in the Chinese mainland. Government policies now provide subsidies for rehabilitation training, and initiatives are underway to strengthen inclusive education and vocational opportunities for individuals with autism.
“They are highly skilled, nurturing the children’s growth and giving families hope. They also see profound meaning in their work,” Zhang said of her team.
For Zhang, the journey continues. “Perhaps this is my life’s mission,” she reflected, embodying hope for many families navigating the challenges of autism.
