When the Left Foot Touches the Ground: Hope Begins to Grow

In a modest home tucked away in rural Henan Province lives a beautiful little angel named Nuo. But her life’s journey began under the shadow of a heavy burden—Nuo was born with congenital fibula deficiency. Her left leg and foot were underdeveloped, making it impossible for her to walk normally. Unlike other children her age, Nuo couldn’t run freely or play to her heart’s content.

 

When Nuo was just one month old, her mother set out with her on a long and challenging road to seek medical care. Her father’s income from construction work was the family’s only source of financial support, while her mother devoted herself entirely to caring for Nuo. Hospital after hospital delivered the same devastating recommendation: amputation. Each time, it felt like cold water extinguishing their hopes. But every time she looked into Nuo’s innocent eyes, her mother found the strength to keep fighting. She believed that even the faintest glimmer of hope was worth holding on to. Finally, in a hospital in Beijing, the family received a different answer. There was a treatment that could save Nuo’s leg—but it would require immense patience, strength, and long-term commitment.

 

 

Nuo would need tibial lengthening surgery every few years, with each operation followed by a two-month period of stretching and recovery. In late 2019, her parents borrowed money and took out loans to raise enough funds for her first major surgery. Nuo successfully underwent the procedure, marking the first milestone on her road to recovery. However, the next planned surgery in 2024 had to be postponed. Years of ongoing care and rehabilitation had drained the family’s resources, and the debt they carried made the next step seem impossibly far away.

 

Just when Nuo’s mother was on the verge of despair, she learned about United Foundation for China’s Health (UFCH) and the possibility of applying for medical assistance. The hope that sparked in her heart was quickly joined by worry—how would she, with her limited literacy, clearly express the family’s situation? But she didn’t give up. With courage and persistence, she wrote and revised a heartfelt letter by hand, pouring her love, fears, and dreams for Nuo onto the page. Along with supporting documents, the letter found its way to the UFCH team.

 

Upon receiving her application, the Foundation team immediately began reviewing Nuo’s case. After a careful assessment, her request was approved. When Nuo’s mother received the long-awaited call, tears of joy streamed down her face. Her unwavering hope had been answered—her daughter could continue treatment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In March 2025, Nuo returned to Beijing with her parents. She wore loose-fitting pants to gently cover the brace on her left leg, and thick-soled booster shoes to support her steps. To the outside world, she looked like any other child. Sensitive and observant, Nuo’s emotional wellbeing has always been a top priority for her mother, who gently encourages her daughter’s confidence and self-esteem each day. Thanks to that nurturing love, Nuo’s once-shy smile now shines more often and more brightly.

 

 

 

 

After a detailed pre-operative assessment, Nuo underwent her second tibial lengthening surgery at United Family Women’s & Children’s Hospital. The operation was a great success—a solid step forward in her healing journey. Throughout her recovery, Nuo has shown remarkable bravery and cooperation. With each follow-up appointment, her progress has brought renewed hope and strength to her family.

 

 

 

As she continues to grow, Nuo will need several more surgeries. But with the continued support of UFCH, the tireless dedication of her parents, and the kindness of countless people who believe in her future, we are confident that Nuo will meet each challenge with courage. One day, she will run through the sunshine like any other child—her left foot touching the ground, her heart full of dreams, and her life unfolding with promise.

 

 

Healing Brings Hope