Cao Yalin, from Sanjiang Dong, Guangxi Zhuang, who suffers from myasthenia gravis, entered the venue on her father’s back to take the national college entrance examination, or gaokao, Chinanews.com reported.
Before entering, Yalin hugged her father tightly, whispering: “Dad, thank you for all these years. I’ll do my best to make you proud.”
Her father replied: “Just focus on doing your best. My shoulders will always hold you up.”
Yalin, diagnosed with the illness as a child and unable to walk independently, has relied on her father, Cao Guangxing, for mobility throughout her 12 years of school, regardless of conditions.
“Her body may be weak, but never her spirit,” said Guangxing.
According to Guangxing, his daily routine includes preparing breakfast for his daughter in the early mornings, carrying her downstairs when she gets dressed neatly and driving nearly 10km round trip twice daily between home and school. He never missed a day or was late once.
“The story of Cao Yalin and her father is truly inspiring,” said Yang Zhanlyu, Yalin’s teacher.
Despite her challenges, Yalin excelled academically, consistently ranking top in her class.
She said it was everyone’s kindness that fuelled her to overcome difficulties and keep moving forward. — China Daily/ANN
