A Symphony of Souls in Tibetan Leprosy Villages
2023-09-07
Love Without Borders
A Symphony of Souls in Tibetan Leprosy Villages
Quxu County, Lhasa, Tibet
May 26, 2023
Established in 2011, Love Without Borders has consistently reached out as a collaborative force for marginalized communities. Facing interruptions during the global pandemic, the campaign re-emerged in 2023 with a revitalized mission, focusing on partnership and support for Tibetan communities affected by leprosy.
Context of Commitment
Historical data from the China Media Group points to Tibet as having had a notably high incidence of leprosy cases. Limited healthcare facilities combined with societal stigmatization played their part. While recent improvements in medical access have positively impacted the situation, challenges persist, especially in the more secluded areas where societal stigma remains a barrier.
Drawing inspiration from earlier online initiatives on the topic, our team recognized and sought to address several critical areas: the scarcity of medical provisions, the intricacies of transportation in challenging terrains, and the importance of continuous caregiving. Uniting our efforts, we embarked on a mission to raise awareness, marshal resources, and offer enriching, shared cultural experiences.
Harmony of Efforts
Our diverse team, hailing from various parts of the world, brought together a medley of skills and expertise. Julie Chen of Columbia University championed digital fundraising campaigns. Sean Xu of Hun School in New Jersey connected people through cultural events, while Kerry Zhou of Kent School in Connecticut, worked diligently on logistics. Oscar Wang from the University of Pennsylvania ensured that the medical provisions were comprehensive, with Martin Zhao and Yvan Yang lending their skills to further enhance our collective efforts.
Resource Gathering Through Community
Harnessing the potential of digital platforms, our dedicated website, www.8turtle.com, became a hub for our campaign. Coupled with effective social media outreach and the extensive network leveraged by Julie Chen, our collective endeavors managed to rally support, accumulating a fund of $25,000 to directly aid the communities.
Undertaking a Shared Mission
May 26th saw our collective vision transforming into action. 32 online collaborators and a core team of seven ground volunteers, hand-in-hand with local liaisons, confronted and overcame the region's logistical challenges. Using yaks, a tradition of the region, essential supplies were transported to the communities. In-between, the team found moments of rejuvenation with local ghee tea.
The event began with poignant performances. Kerry Zhou's piano rendition of "River Flows in You" echoed the profound sentiments of the campaign. Jamie, the lead soloist from Princeton University, delivered a rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams," capturing the resilience of the affected individuals. Sean Xu's take on "The Sound of Silence" deeply resonated with those long marginalized. Li Yanru from Las Vegas introduced a lively Shaoxing Opera piece, honoring the unyielding spirit of the patients. Even with language differences, the joy was unmistakable—every clap and smile underscored the mission's impact.
Community Health Initiatives
Our clinic symbolized the union of local wisdom with external expertise. Dr. Oscar, alongside Julie and Chindrup Dolma, catered to health consultations. With the support of local interpreters and volunteers from varied backgrounds, our integrated team extended medical assistance to 112 individuals in a single day. Furthermore, our financial initiative, emphasizing respect and collaboration, reached out to chosen community members.
Growing Together
As the day neared its conclusion, communal bonds were further strengthened by the distribution of food supplies. Oscar Wang and Julie Chen, representing our team, planted the 'Tree of Unconditional Love'. This act, more than symbolic, embodied our hopes for sustained growth, understanding, and mutual support within these communities.
Wrapping up the day's endeavors, it became abundantly clear that the ties formed were beyond transactional. It was a communion of souls, where every participant, whether from the local community or the global team, came together as equal stakeholders in a shared journey of compassion and collaboration — a testament to the spirit of Love Without Borders.
Written by Sean Xu, Hun School of Princeton, New Jersey
Edited by Kerry Zhou, Kent School, Connecticut
Check out the Highlights video made by Kerry Zhou and Sean Xu on YouTube!